If you are a pregnant woman (or are trying to be), you should be aware of the dangers of drug use. Not only are there physical risks to the baby, but you may also be putting yourself in legal jeopardy. Many drugs can interfere with your pregnancy and cause harm to the fetus or newborn child. In this blog post, we will go over some of the main risks associated with drug use during and after pregnancy as well as how to find treatment if you are struggling to stop using drugs.
The Dangers of Drug Use While Pregnant
One of the main dangers associated with drug use during pregnancy is preterm labor. This means you are more likely to give birth prematurely if you abuse drugs while pregnant. Premature babies often have health problems, developmental delays, or even death in some cases. Drug exposure can also lead to miscarriage and stillbirths as well as congenital defects in the baby.
Unfortunately, some women are unaware of their pregnancy until weeks after conception. If you were using drugs prior to becoming pregnant or during your early stages of pregnancy and stop once you know you are expecting, it is still possible for drug use to harm your developing child.
The Dangers of Drug Use After Pregnancy
It is also important to be aware of the dangers associated with drug use after giving birth. Postpartum depression is a serious condition that can occur in women who have given birth. It is often treated with medication, but some women turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope. This puts the mother and baby at risk.
Not only can drug use after pregnancy harm your child, but it could also land you in legal trouble if you are caught with illegal substances. The same is true for prescription medications if you do not have a valid prescription. If authorities find out about your drug activities while pregnant or postpartum, they may be able to press charges against you for child endangerment or drug possession.
Drugs and Alcohol Are Not the Only Risks Associated with Pregnancy While Using Drugs
Even if you manage to avoid legal trouble, there are still many risks associated with having a baby while on drugs. If you abuse opiates, for example, your child can be born addicted as well. This means they will go through withdrawal after they are born. This can be very traumatic for the baby and could lead to other health problems as well.
If you plan on breastfeeding, also keep in mind that drugs can pass through your milk to the baby. This means even if you were not using while pregnant, you could still expose your child to harmful substances.
Drugs should never be used during pregnancy or postpartum unless you have a doctor’s prescription or are under supervision by medical professionals. However, if you are struggling to quit taking drugs or drinking alcohol and anticipating pregnancy, there are ways to help yourself.
Checking Yourself Into Rehab
Rehab is a residential treatment facility that allows people struggling with addiction to live at the facility for an extended period of time. The length of stay can vary depending on how much help you need and your insurance coverage, but most individuals are able to check themselves into rehab once they feel ready to stop using substances.
While in rehab, professionals will help you go through drug detox as well as work with your doctors to manage any withdrawal symptoms. However, the main focus of rehab is not just getting sober but also learning how to live a life free from addiction altogether. Rehab will teach you healthy coping mechanisms so that you can learn how to deal with stress and other challenges without resorting back to drugs or alcohol.
Tips for Finding the Right Treatment Facility
There are many rehab facilities across the United States. Each one will have different options for treatment and programs, so it is important to find a facility that meets your needs. Here are some tips on how you can begin researching rehabilitation centers:
Speak to Health Care Professionals
If you are pregnant or have a child and are struggling with addiction, it is important to speak to your health care professionals. They may be able to refer you to a rehab center that specializes in helping people with addictions who are soon-to-be or new parents.
If you are not yet pregnant, you can have healthcare professionals help you find the right treatment options for you based on the severity of your condition and the type of drugs you are using.
Look Online
There are many online resources that can help you find the right rehab facility for you and your family. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website has a Treatment Facility Locator that can help you find local treatment centers.
While looking online, be sure to read reviews and testimonials from past patients. You can also look on social media for rehab facilities in your area that you would like to learn more about so that you can contact them directly if necessary.
If you are looking for a useful directory for finding a rehab near you, click here: https://www.rehab.com/
Figure Out Your Budget
Not all rehab facilities are created equally, so you will need to make sure that the facility is affordable for your budget. Some insurance plans may cover treatment at certain centers, while others require full payment upfront. Further, if you require additional amenities or prefer holistic rehabilitation treatments, you may have to check into a luxury rehab or a facility that offers those specific things. These facilities typically cost more than traditional ones because they offer more amenities and services, but they may also supplement your healing process in a positive way.
Picking the Right Treatment Facility for You
Once you have considered all of these factors, you should be well on your way to finding a rehab center that is right for you and your family. Although it may seem overwhelming at first, there are many professionals who can help guide you along the way.
Rehab can be a great way to get the help you need if you are struggling with drug use during or after pregnancy. It is important to remember that there is no shame in seeking assistance and that addiction is a disease that can be treated. If you have any further questions about rehab or the risks of drug use during pregnancy, please do not hesitate to find a rehab center near you and speak with a professional.
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