Pregnancy and Meth Use: What You Need to Know

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• The use of methamphetamines is on the rise. In
  many states, this drug is behind only alcohol and
  marijuana in terms of usage, according to
  DrugAbuse.com. While it is dangerous for anyone
  to use meth, the dangers are even more
  significant for pregnant women.
• There is a long list of complications and birth
  defects associated with meth use during
  pregnancyhighlighting the importance for
  expectant mothers to stay away from this
  dangerous drug.

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• Meth users often have a significantly lower body
  mass index than non-meth users, increasing the
  risk of certain pregnancy complications.
• Placental blood flow can be reduced due to the
  use of meth.
• Commonly, meth is used along with other
  substances, such as marijuana, alcohol, or
  prescription drugs. This creates a very dangerous
  situation for the mother.

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• Low birth weight is one of the common issues
  faced by a baby whose mother used meth during
  pregnancy.
• There is a higher likelihood of a preterm birth,
  which places the baby at risk for various
  complications, including cardiac issues.
• There is also potential for long-term
  developmental and health issues far beyond the
  infant stage.

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• Meth use offers a powerful high, which tends to
  be short in duration. Users will frequently take
  doses of meth in quick succession in an effort to
  maintain the high.
• Meth use dramatically raises the level of
  dopamine in the brain, which is known as a
  feel-good chemical. The rush that is
  experienced by meth use is powerful enough that
  users seek it out again and again.
• With repeated use, the meth user develops a
  tolerance and will need higher doses just in an
  attempt to achieve the same high.

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• It would be best to avoid meth use entirely
  during pregnancy, but it is still important to
  stop as soon as possible, even if some drug use
  has occurred after the pregnancy began.
• Many women find that they suddenly have the urge
  to get clean and stop drug use once they realize
  that they are responsible for the child they will
  soon have.
• Seeking professional treatment is advisable for
  meth users looking for assistance to get away
  from this drug.

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• It is difficult, but certainly not impossible, to
  quit using meth while pregnant.
• While it may be embarrassing or difficult,
  speaking with a medical professional is an
  important first step in the process.
• There are both inpatient and outpatient treatment
  options available for pregnant women who are
  addicted to meth.
• Included in treatment may be things like
  counseling, support groups, cognitive behavioral
  therapy (CBT), and more.

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• There is no right or wrong answer to this
  question. The key is to find the right option for
  each individual.
• Outpatient treatment offers the flexibility to
  keep up with commitments in day-to-day life.
• Inpatient treatment allows the patient to focus
  fully on breaking the addiction to meth.

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• Retreat Premier Addiction Treatment Centers
  offers a variety of drug and alcohol treatment
  options to patients in Pennsylvania and Florida.
  We are proud to offer care to pregnant women who
  are struggling with an addiction to
  methamphetamines. Contact us today to learn more
  about what we can offer at https//retreataddictio
  ncenters.com

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• https//drugabuse.com/library/meth-pregnancy/