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Alcohol or Other Drugs During Pregnancy

From the Editor
Since this is the last week of my hosted event, Womens Month, I wanted to discuss a more serious issue than our normal gender conversations. Ladies, you could have participated in any relating topic about women. What I noticed was that most of you focused more on women's history than current topics. Do we really value our today's experiences as women? Or are we stuck in remembering yesterday when today and tomorrow (Lord willing) is waiting for us? Thank you to those who have participated in this month's event. Lastly, all parents realize that you should not do drugs, especially when pregnant. Do you, your unique household, really know the side effects and symptoms of drug addiction?

Men, your turn - entire month of June :) Speaking of men, ladies, Tyler Perry Studios' two new shows begin this week. The Haves and the Have Nots airs this evening on OWN (Oprah Winfrey Network). Love Thy Neighbor, tomorrow.

The New Monday Show
Lecture highlighted Yusuf/Joseph and the lack of brotherly love: real family (drama) within a unique household.

Let's talk Alcohol or Other Drugs During Pregnancy
Source: Unknown

Infants exposed to alcohol or other addictive substances during pregnancy may go through withdrawal after birth when the substance is no longer being carried in their bloodstream.

Visible Symptoms
  • High irritability
  • Problems with sleep and eating
  • Low birth weight
  • Stiffening of the body
  • Failure to bond
Alcohol: "May" cause their infant to remain mentally impaired.
Crack cocaine usage: Causes the mother's and infant's blood vessels to constrict, and decreased blood flow to the fetus (reduces oxygen to the baby):
  • Delayed growth
  • Birth defects affecting the heart, lungs, intestines
  • Premature birth of baby
  • Prolonged decrease of blood flow to the fetus causes delay in large and small child-like movements, delays in speech, hearing, vision, smell, touch, and the planning and organization of thoughts and actions.
  • Attention deficit disorders
  • Periods of uncontrollable rage or restlessness
  • Inability to be comforted
  • Inability to respond to typical caregiving functions
SS
Editor-in-Chief