When drugs are a part of your life
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The safest approach is to stop using alcohol or drugs when you are pregnant. If you are using drugs occasionally or are dependent on alcohol, speed, tranquillisers, pain killers or heroin and you haven't told anyone there are special services that can help you. The services are set up especially to work with pregnant women who are addicted to a drug. They understand what you are feeling and experiencing and have been very successful in helping women to get through their pregnancies. They will help you and your baby to get the correct medical care during your pregnancy and labour. Your information is kept entirely confidential and Women who continue to inject drugs while pregnant must always use clean injecting equipment and never share syringes as HIV, Hepatitis B and C can be passed on to the baby.
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When using everyday medicines such as mild pain relievers, laxatives, cough medicine or herbal remedies or drugs prescribed by a doctor for medical conditions make sure you tell the pharmacists or doctor you are pregnant and ask about possible side effects. There is often advice on the packaging about side effects and whether or not it is safe to use the medication when you are pregnant. However, many drugs do not carry information. It is best not to take these drugs without medical advice so that you and your baby are safe.
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For Information on Drugs and Pregnancy:
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Full contact details at Links & Resources
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Or contact your nearest Community Health Service or Alcohol and Drug Service.
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