When a woman ingests drug while pregnant, the drugs once in the blood stream will often cross the placenta (the organ that allows a mother to transfer nutrients and nourishment to the fetus) to the fetus. The most crucial period of a woman’s pregnancy is the beginning of the prengancy when the fetus is just taking shape. This crucial period is also when the most damage can be done to the fetus.
This critical period where the fetus is taking shape and the organ systems are being created starts at around day 17 post conceptions, and continues for 60 to 70 days. Drugs consumed during this period will risk causing significant damage to the fetus.
How Drugs Affect Pregnant Women:
- Suppressed appetite
- Sleep disturbances
- Premature labor
- Impaired executive functioning skills
- Water breaks early
- Bleeding
