In the United States, an estimated 400,000 to 440,000 newborns are exposed to alcohol or illegal drug exposure before birth each year. This accounts for about 10-11% of all births. Of these, approximately 13,500 newborns were diagnosed with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NOS). NAS refers to a group of disorders in which the baby weans after exposure in the womb at birth.
Why do so many pregnant women still use, smoke or drink drugs even though they are aware of the risks? This is often related to an unexpected pregnancy, the expectant mother’s age, family history, and low socioeconomic status. These include the prevalence of prescribed medications, underestimation of risk, and inability to quit smoking.
For more information on the dangers of addiction during pregnancy, see the attached resource.
Infographic provided by Vanguard Behavioral Health, drug rehab Albuquerque
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