Pregnancy Dangers

Alcohol Fetal alcohol syndrome: physical and mental problems. One in five babies born with FAS dies soon after birth. Those who survive: mentally disabled because alcohol interferes with tissue growth and development. Brain tissue most easily injured. Slow growth, poor coordination, heart defects, facial disfigurement.

Fetal Alcohol Effects Less severe than FAS. Suffers damage Usually directed related to amount of alcohol consumed. May be affected by stage of pregnancy. No cure Prevention: no drinking while pregnant! No known amount that presents danger

Prescription/Over the Counter Drugs No safe drug Even aspirin, cold remedies can harm baby Medicines within first three months of pregnancy are most devastating. (brain development) Last six months: slow growth, infections, bleeding at birth Drugs right before birth will be in baby’s system. Doctor will monitor is mother is on medication.

Caffeine In coffee, tea, cocoa, soft drinks Small amounts do not seem to pose a risk Large quantities do! Miscarriage Low birth weight Higher rates of infant death

Tobacco Nicotine More mother smokes=smaller the baby Premature birth Respiratory infections and allergies

Illegal Drugs Mother addicted while pregnant passes addiction to baby. Infants go through withdrawal (some die) Cocaine: miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, and birth defects

X Rays Radiation Pregnant women needs to notify doctor Special precautions

Rubella German measles Mothers had few/no symptoms Deafness, blindness, heart disease, mentally disabled Vaccine available now… better to take vaccine before pregnancy.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases Most routinely test woman for syphilis.. Tests are required by law in many states. Eyes of newborns treated with eye drops that kills gonorrhea germs (causes blindness) AIDS Baby can be affected