When an infant is exposed to substance abuse through his parents or caregivers, he is at risk for physical, mental and developmental delays. It is important to take into consideration that an infant can face the effects of substance abuse long before birth, based on what drugs the mother is using while she is pregnant. These effects can determine the overall physical health of the child.
Significance
It is important that an infant receive the best possible care during and after birth. If a mother is suffering from a substance abuse problem, her infant will also suffer. The National Center on Substance Abuse and Child Welfare states that between 400,000 and 440,000 infants are exposed to alcohol and substance abuse yearly. Not only are the immediate signs noted, there can also be developmental delays and impairment that can last a lifetime.
Types
Some of the most common forms of substance abuse include marijuana and illicit drugs, which include one-time or chronic use of heroin, cocaine, PCP, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, hydrocodone, inhalants, LSD, oxycodone and steroids, explains the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Substance abuse also includes moderate to severe alcohol use while pregnant and after the baby is born.
Results
Abusing substances can cause harm to the baby if the mother was using them when she was pregnant. Some of the effects include premature delivery, low birth weight and excessive crying, states the March of Dimes. When a mother uses drugs such as amphetamines she is increasing the risk of congenital heart defects that could occur at birth or months later in the infant. If the mother drinks while pregnant, the baby could be born with fetal alcohol syndrome, a preventable cause of birth defects that causes growth issues, behavior problems and mental impairments. A mother who abuses drugs and alcohol while caring for her infant can put the infant in danger because proper care is not instituted.
Repercussions
The Child Welfare Information Gateway explains that under the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act, or CAPTA, states are required to notify child protective services if they believe a newborn or infant has been exposed to substance abuse. This means they can seek immediate drug testing of both the mother and the baby. If the tests are positive, the child could be taken away. A plan must then be instituted in order for the infant to receive adequate and safe care.
Solution
The first concern in any substance abuse situation is to make sure the infant is safe and well cared for. Proper medical treatment must be instituted in cases of substance abuse exposure. When the child is in a safe environment, the parent or parents should then seek treatment for their substance abuse. This may involve state mandatory or voluntary inpatient drug rehab. Detoxification may be necessary under a medically supervised environment. Parents going through rehabilitation may be required to go through parenting classes to learn how to care for an infant who has been exposed to substance abuse.
