Drug and alcohol abuse continue to be a major concern among the American population. The abuse of any drug can result in unpleasant side effects and symptoms that can negatively impact one’s overall health. This is especially true if the abuser is pregnant. If you’re currently pregnant and still abusing an illicit drug or alcohol, you’ve probably asked yourself, “can I detox while pregnant?”
The answer to that question is yes, though there are certain stipulations that you need to be familiar with first.
Drug and Alcohol Use During Pregnancy
Although the use of drugs and alcohol during pregnancy is known to be dangerous, there are some women who simply will not—or cannot—quit. In fact, approximately 15% of all pregnant women continue to abuse alcohol, despite the possible harmful effects it can have on an unborn fetus. Others continue to abuse opiates and other types of drugs.
Also worth noting is that a large majority of women—between 56% and 92%—who abuse drugs or alcohol during pregnancy suffer from some sort of psychiatric illness, and about 70% have suffered some sort of sexual abuse during their youth.
The Side Effects of Drug and Alcohol Use During Pregnancy
Consuming alcohol or other drugs while pregnant can result in many adverse side effects to the unborn baby. These can include:
- Slowed intra-uterine growth
- Birth defects
- Altered neurobehavior
- Withdrawal symptoms at birth or once abuse has stopped
- Future development, behavioral and neurological function impairments
- Increased vulnerability to addiction later in life
- Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
The majority of infants catch-up physically and mentally with time. Withdrawal symptoms cease on their own, and many neurobehavioral abnormalities resolve themselves. The exception to this is alcohol, a drug that creates life-lasting effects, such as intellectual disabilities. Going through detox while pregnant may help avoid these problems.
Can I Detox While Pregnant?
Detox while pregnant is a bit more complicated than a standard detox, but it can be done in a safe manner that causes no harm to the unborn child. Detox during pregnancy should be done only in a closely monitored setting, under the watchful care of trusted and experienced medical physicians. A medically monitored detox is the only safe way to get sober for both you and your baby.
If you’re pregnant and still abusing drugs or alcohol, Pinnacle Peak Recovery in Scottsdale, Arizona, has the help you need to get sober and conquer your addiction. At our serene and safe addiction recovery facility, you can rest and heal.
We’ll not only refer you to a place where you can safely get sober, but we’ll give you the tools necessary for maintaining your sobriety long-term, so that you and your baby can have the best possible chance at a bright and healthy future.
Addiction Treatment at Pinnacle Peak Recovery
Our comprehensive and evidence-based approach to addiction treatment includes:
- Safe, medically-managed detox at our partner’s off-site facility
- Primary care
- Extended care
- Transitional living
- Outpatient drug and alcohol rehab
- Individual, group, and family therapy
- Holistic therapy
During your stay at Pinnacle Peak Recovery, our compassionate team of physicians, psychologists and other medical professionals will oversee your care to ensure you and your baby are healthy and responding well to treatment. By accepting our help and seeking treatment, you’ll give your baby the chance at the wonderful life that he or she deserves. By the end of our treatment program, you’ll feel strong, healthy and confident once again.
If you or a loved one is pregnant and in need of professional drug detox, Pinnacle Peak Recovery in Scottsdale, Arizona, can help. We offer the most quality and broad-scale treatment options available. Call us today at 866-377-4761 to learn more about our programs and verify your insurance.