EFFECT AND IMPLICATIONS OF DRUG ABUSE AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN IN OYUN LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KWARA STATE.
Abstract
Drug abuse during pregnancy poses significant health risks to both mother and fetus, often leading to complications such as miscarriage, low birth weight, birth defects, and maternal health issues. This study investigated the effects and implications of drug abuse among pregnant women in Oyun Local Government Area, Kwara State. A descriptive survey design was employed, and data were collected from 120 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics using structured questionnaires. The study revealed that while awareness of drug abuse was relatively high among respondents, knowledge of its specific health consequences was limited. Commonly abused substances included herbal mixtures, codeine-based syrups, and self-medicated antibiotics. Findings showed a significant relationship between drug abuse and adverse pregnancy outcomes. The study concluded that cultural practices, lack of adequate antenatal counseling, and easy access to unregulated medications contributed to the prevalence of drug abuse. It recommends community education, stricter regulation of drug sales, and improved counseling services at antenatal clinics to mitigate the harmful effects of drug abuse among pregnant women.
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