Dealing with addictive substances when you’re expecting is really tricky. It’s not just about illegal drugs or booze, but sometimes even prescribed meds can mess with your baby’s growth. The risks are real: we’re talking premature birth, low birth weight, developmental problems, and babies being born with withdrawal symptoms, a condition known as neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS).
This issue isn’t just tough on the little ones, but it’s super hard on the moms too. Health problems can get worse, pregnancy gets more complicated, and sometimes, the shame and stigma attached to substance use makes it hard for these women to reach out for the care they really need.
Continue reading “Understanding the Risks: Substance Abuse in Pregnancy”