Essay on Prenatal Substance Abuse - 954 Words

Substance abuse during pregnancy can have a negative force on the health and wellness of not only the fetus, but that of the mother. The harmful effects of medications, alcohol and illegal drugs on an unborn child can be devastating and can have significant consequences to its use. Sometimes the effects can be faced and treated, and other times the outcome is a lifelong challenge. During the prenatal period, it is important that new mothers are informed of the different types of abuse, how they may affect the fetus, and the adverse conditions their child may be faced with before and after birth. Most women are unaware of the risks associated with taking prescription medications while pregnant. Usually the fear†¦show more content†¦Vitamin E has been linked to cardiovascular disease. Common use of Tylenol or aspirin for headaches or pain is also forbidden. Aspirin is linked to Reye’s syndrome affecting the fetus’ brain and liver. Tylenol is a powerful toxin that can cause liver damage and be fatal to the fetus. It is imperative that no matter what medications a mother may be taking, once the pregnancy is confirmed, it is crucial to discontinue use, and speak with a family physician regarding continued use or not. Once a mother is pregnant, everything she eats and drinks is a form of nourishment to the fetus and is ingested through the placenta directly to the baby. It is extremely important to determine whether or not any medications are safe or may cause complications with the fetus and delivery. Warnings and dangers of alcohol abuse have been recognized since biblical times. â€Å"Behold, thou shalt conceive and bear a son: and now drink no wine or strong drinks† (Holy Bible, Judges 13:7, 1970, p.261). There was even mention from Aristotle who noted â€Å"that foolish, drunken and harebrained women most often bring forth children like unto themselves, morose and languid.† (Buxton, 2004, p.42). Alcohol abuse is not easily recognized by a mother or easily identified at birth. Some mothers continue to drink because they are unaware they have actually conceived a child. It is important that once pregnancy isShow MoreRelatedSubstance Abuse Is An Addiction1626 Words   |  7 PagesIntroduction Substance abuse is an addiction and it is the addition, which is referred to a chronic disease. It is this chronic disease that is a significant and growing issue, especially among family units where either one or two parents and/or parental guardians suffer from. 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