One of my readers writes:
We are in the adoption process and have been matched with a prospective birth mom who is due in August. We found out she took drugs and drank during the first trimester.
I'm sure it is possible the baby is just fine and won't show adverse effects, but it is just as possible that that she will, and it could be something that doesn't show up for a while.
I'm sure it is possible the baby is just fine and won't show adverse effects, but it is just as possible that that she will, and it could be something that doesn't show up for a while.
The prospective birth mom says that she is not currently taking any drugs, but has still had alcohol a couple of times.
This mom-to-be would love to hear from others who have dealt with similar situations. I don't have much experience in this area, so if you can offer her some helpful advice, statistics, or resources where she can get more information, that would be great
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
I would like to comment on “If a Birth Mom Uses Drugs/Alcohol During Her First Trimester, Will the Baby be Damaged?” My husband and I have adopted five children with drug/alcohol effects; each one is effected in varying degrees. I have three with emotional and learning disabilities, I have one with just emotional issues, one is hyperactive. Many of these issues will not be discovered until the child goes to school. Some children will have facial feature unlike other children. If you can find a book by Ann Streissguth will help understand fetal alcohol. Only by the Grace of God will your child not be effected by alcohol, and if he/she is effected, God has a plan for that child/you. My children are a challenge, however they are more of a blessing. God Bless
I would recommend contacting FAS Diagnostic and Prevention Network, Children’s Hospital and Medical Center, 4800 Sand Point Way N.E., P.O. Box 5371, Mail Stop CH-47, Seattle, WA 98105
(206) 526-2522
OR
Washington State FAS Diagnostic and Prevention Network
Center on Human Development and Disability Clinical Training Unit, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
http://depts.washington.edu/fasdpn
or
University of Washington Fetal Alcohol and Drug Unit
http://weber.u.washington.edu/fadu/
Julie Gelo works with the U.W. and teaches workshops on raising kids with FAE
Would that change your mind if the baby is not perfect?