Hey there, friends! So, let’s chat about something really important, especially this month. It’s Birth Defects Prevention Month, and I want to share a story that really hits home. Imagine a woman named Jenna—she was feeling overwhelmed after finding out she was pregnant with her third child. Jenna had been enjoying a glass of wine with dinner and smoking a bit of marijuana on weekends. When she learned she was expecting again, she felt the weight of concern for her baby’s health. She reached out for advice, and that’s when things started to change.
Jenna’s experience is a perfect reminder of Tip ❺ for this month: Take care of yourself by steering clear of harmful substances during pregnancy, such as alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and other drugs.
Alcohol
We all know alcohol is everywhere—whether it’s at parties or just a way to unwind. But when you’re pregnant, it’s crucial to avoid it entirely. While one drink might not seem like a big deal, the truth is that no amount of alcohol is considered safe during pregnancy. It can lead to a variety of issues, from physical birth defects to emotional and learning challenges later on.
Cigarettes & E-Cigarettes
Many people think smoking helps relieve stress, but it’s filled with over 4,000 harmful chemicals. Smoking during pregnancy can restrict oxygen and nutrients to your baby, leading to low birth weight and premature births. Even e-cigarettes, which some might think are safer, contain many of the same harmful toxins as traditional cigarettes. So, if you’re expecting, it’s best to avoid these altogether.
Marijuana and Other Drugs
Now, you might think that marijuana could help with morning sickness, but studies are showing it might actually harm your baby’s brain development. Plus, the contents of marijuana aren’t regulated, meaning you could be exposing your baby to unknown chemicals. And it’s not just marijuana—other street drugs like cocaine and heroin carry serious risks, including miscarriage and withdrawal symptoms in newborns.
It’s essential to remember that just because your baby looks healthy at birth—ten fingers and ten toes—it doesn’t mean everything is alright. The effects of using substances during pregnancy can sometimes take time to reveal themselves. As your child grows, you may notice challenges with learning or emotional regulation, and those can stem from prenatal exposure.
Focusing on your health can directly impact your baby’s well-being. If you’re facing challenges with substance use, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for help. One of our blog posts discusses extended breastfeeding, which you might find helpful as you navigate your parenting journey. If you’re looking into family planning, check out resources from experts on home insemination from Make A Mom, or for more info on pregnancy, Healthline has some great articles on IVF.
In summary, taking care of your health by avoiding harmful substances during pregnancy is crucial for both you and your baby. It’s a powerful step toward a healthier future.