PREGNANCY
Evidence
https://ranzcog.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Substance-use-in-pregnancy.pdf
‘Substance use is associated not only with adverse pregnancy outcomes, but with a cascade of health, legal, social, and financial problems that adversely affect the welfare of the mother and child. For these reasons, broad psychosocial assessment is necessary to understand the reasons for the woman's substance use, helping allows these to be addressed.’
Education
Effects of Drugs on Mother and Baby
During pregnancy, the exchange of oxygen and nutrients in the blood happens through the placenta from the mother to the baby and any substance that is carried through the mother’s blood, including alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription medications, can possibly affect the baby. Substance abuse may harm the baby in one or more ways. The unborn baby is very sensitive to drugs and can’t eliminate drugs as effectively as an adult, resulting in the drugs building up to extremely high levels in the baby’s system and may also cause permanent damage to the baby. Sometimes these problems are not known until the baby is born and as time passes when the baby gets older, problems may surface that were not obvious at birth.
Here are some of the specific consequences of drug use during pregnancy:
There are obvious contraindications for drug use during pregnancy and breastfeeding and the more common one’s are as follows:
These are more common drugs that are harmful to the unborn baby or while you breastfeed.
Tobacco while Pregnant and Breastfeeding
If you smoke the best thing is to limit and quit although keep in mind that some quitting methods may not be suitable while you're pregnant — ask your health professional for advice on what is best for you and your baby or call the Quitline 13 78 48.
If you can’t stop smoking right now these are some safety measures that will help:
Cannabis while Pregnant and Breastfeeding
Research shows that 3-16% percent of pregnant females use this drug. According to available studies, after birth, the baby may have poor growth, be at risk for childhood leukemia, and experience neurobehavioral problems, such as irritability, tremors or be prone to high-pitched crying.
Alcohol while Pregnant and Breastfeeding
Alcohol can cause a condition known as fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), characterized by abnormal facial features, slowed fetal growth, and dysfunctions of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Damage to the central nervous system can lead to a baby growing up to have a low IQ or a behavioural disorder, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The following factors are important to consider:
Feed Safe App suggested by the Australian Breastfeeding Association. This app will help make safe choices while drinking alcoholic drinks and breastfeeding.
https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/resources/alcohol-and-breastfeeding
Empowerment
Treatment Questions
Pregnant women with substance use disorders may be apprehensive to get the help they need because of shame and fear of the judgemental remarks of others, or not understanding how to access services that are acceptable. But help is available for any drug or alcohol problem at hospitals and clinics. There are services that can give you support and provide you with the appropriate resources to help you stop using drugs or alcohol. You can look online for information on support groups in your area, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and Cocaine Anonymous. There are also drug treatment centres, social and family service agencies, and alcoholism and drug abuse counsellors.
There is a need to address the stigma associated with substance use in pregnancy so that women can be supported and find the right treatment and have the best possible health for themselves and their babies. It’s important to not judge women in this situation and help direct them to the special help they need.
If you have a problem with alcohol or other drugs use this can often make you feel judged and ashamed. This can put a barrier to getting urgent health needs met and this might stop you from getting the right antenatal care. There is support for you if you have a substance abuse problem please reach-out to any of the listings below.
Useful Links
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) 1300 222 222
Narcotics Anonymous (NA) 1300 652 820
Every Moment Matters
https://everymomentmatters.org.au/support
Smoking and Pregnant
https://www.quit.org.au/articles/how-to-quit-when-pregnant/
Australian Government – Department of Health
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Confirmation Content
Disclaimer: This publication by Miracle Babies Foundation is intended solely for general education and assistance and it is it is not medical advice or a healthcare recommendation. It should not be used for the purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment for any individual condition. This publication has been developed by our Parent Advisory Team (all who are parents of premature and sick babies) and has been reviewed and approved by a Clinical Advisory Team. This publication is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Miracle Babies Foundation recommends that professional medical advice and services be sought out from a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your personal circumstances. To the extent permitted by law, Miracle Babies Foundation excludes and disclaims any liability of any kind (directly or indirectly arising) to any reader of this publication who acts or does not act in reliance wholly or partly on the content of this general publication. If you would like to provide any feedback on the information please email [email protected].