Almost everyone knows that you are not supposed to drink while pregnant and that consuming alcohol is harmful to the baby. However, few people know the actual effects on the baby and even fewer give thought to the women suffering from an addiction to alcohol who find out they are unexpectedly pregnant. This can be a very scary situation and one that can feel isolating and overwhelming.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
Babies born to mothers who have consumed alcohol during pregnancy could receive the diagnosis of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Symptoms relating to a diagnosis on this spectrum include difficulty with learning or memory, higher than average activity level, speech and language delays, and lower IQ level. In addition, a person with fetal alcohol disorders can experience lifelong behavioral, physical, and intellectual difficulties.
Planning Ahead
Most professionals agree that the safest option is to consume no alcohol during pregnancy. If you are trying to conceive it is best to not consume any alcohol, as there is a good chance there will be a period of time that you are pregnant and do not know about it. Many professionals also recommend not drinking if you choose to have unprotected sex. If there is a high chance of pregnancy occurring, the safest option is to simply not drink.
Seeking out help for a drinking problem is a great first step if you feel like you may have a problem. Maybe you want children in the future, but you know you currently have a problem with drinking. Working on yourself first is a very responsible and loving thing to do for your future children. Do not let fear or stigma hold you back from bettering yourself. Those who are important to your life and part of your support system will support you and give you strength as you journey through treatment and through recovery.
Alcohol should never be consumed if you are pregnant or if there is a chance you will become pregnant. If you think you may have a problem drinking alcohol and think you may be pregnant, consult with your doctor immediately. Try to not let fear or stigma surrounding substance abuse stop you from speaking with a professional. If you think you may want children in the future, working through your struggles with alcohol now is a great plan. Here at The Guest House we are ready to help you work through any struggles you may be facing. Call us today to learn more about all of our different treatment options at (855) 483-7800.