If you are pregnant or planning to have a baby soon, the biggest dream in your mind is to bring a healthy, cute baby into this world. But sometimes, small mistakes we make without realizing it can ruin that dream. Especially during pregnancy, using drugs and alcohol can have a very negative impact on the little one in your womb. Let's talk about this today.
Why are pregnant mothers told not to use drugs?
Simply put, anything you take in, whether it's the food you eat or drink or the medications you take, some of it passes through the umbilical cord to your baby. So think about it, if you drink alcohol, smoke a cigarette, or take any other drug, those things also enter your baby's body in the same way.
You may not have any major, long-term problems after using a drug. But for a baby in the womb, it's a very different story. Children born to mothers who use drugs often suffer from a variety of developmental problems. We also call these children "drug babies."
Remember, not only illegal drugs you take while you're pregnant, but also some common over-the-counter medications, alcohol , cigarettes, and even excessive caffeine can cause lifelong harm to your baby.
How different drugs affect the child
Any drug taken during pregnancy can harm the baby. However, the harm caused by some drugs is very serious. Let's look at what the main effects are.
| Drug type | Possible effects on the child |
|---|---|
| Cocaine and Methamphetamine |
|
| Marijuana | |
| Cigarette smoking | |
| Alcohol |
Is caffeine also a drug?
Caffeine is found in the tea, coffee, some soft drinks, and chocolate you drink every day. Although it is legal, doctors consider it a type of drug. Excessive caffeine intake during pregnancy can lead to low birth weight and restlessness in the baby after birth. Therefore, it is best to limit your coffee intake to one or two cups a day.
What about the medicine prescribed by the doctor and the medicine purchased at the pharmacy?
This is a very important question. Sometimes you may need to take medication during pregnancy for a medical condition (e.g. asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes, epilepsy).
However, the most important thing you need to remember is to never take any medication, painkillers, or vitamins without your doctor's advice .
It is unethical to test pregnant women for medication, and many medications do not have a clear picture of how they will affect the baby. So it is not a good idea to take the risk.
- Painkillers: Painkillers like aspirin and ibuprofen, especially during the last 3 months of pregnancy, can cause serious problems for the baby and the delivery if taken without medical advice.
- Natural or Ayurvedic products: Just because something is "natural" doesn't mean it's safe. If you're taking any Ayurvedic or traditional herbal medicine, be sure to tell your doctor about it.
- Vitamins: The dosage of regular vitamins you can buy from the pharmacy may be too high for a pregnant mother. Therefore, only take prenatal vitamins that are specifically designed for the pregnant mother and baby, as recommended by your doctor.
What should I do?
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, follow the steps below for your safety and that of your baby.
1. Be honest: If you are using alcohol, tobacco, or any other drug, talk to your doctor about it openly and honestly. They will not blame you, but instead will help you and your baby.
2. Ask for help: If you need help quitting drug use, there are specialized counseling services and rehabilitation programs available. Your doctor can refer you to the right place.
3. Be careful with your medications: Tell your doctor about any medications, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. Don't use anything without their approval.
4. A healthy lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet, do light exercise, and get enough rest. These things are very important for you and your unborn baby.
The life growing inside you is precious. You have the responsibility to give that little life the best, healthiest start into this world. It's up to you to make the right decisions.
Take-Home Message
- Any drugs, alcohol, or cigarettes taken during pregnancy pass directly to your baby through the umbilical cord.
- There is no "safe" amount of alcohol or illegal drugs during pregnancy. Even small amounts can harm the baby.
- Smoking increases the risk of serious heart disease and other birth defects in the baby.
- Talk to your doctor and get approval for any medication, vitamin, or even "natural" herb you take.
- If you are addicted to drugs, it is never too late to seek help. Talking honestly with your doctor is the first step.
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