Question

Agree or disagree with this post:

I feel that the two environmental maternal factors that most impact the prenatal stage of development are drug use and alcohol and tobacco use. These things have all been linked to premature birth, fetal alcohol effects, or the baby being born addicted to drugs. These effects can all be lifelong for the child. I think if a mother who was exposing her unborn baby to these factors could see first hand what some of the other babies who were also exposed to these factors were going through, they would likely want to stop exposing their baby. Also, so many want to sit back and watch these moms expose their baby to these factors and judge them. I think that instead of judging them, we need to encourage them to get the help that they need.

Answer 1

I agree with what has been discussed in the post. Using alcohol, drugs, tobacco or any harmful substances during pregnancy can have drastic effects on the infant's well-being. It is important for pregnant mothers to remember that some of their personal lifestyle choices not only affect their own health but also compromises that of their unborn child. A fetus cannot exercise any control over his/her environment an thus the responsibility lies solely in the hands of the mother. I also agree that mothers facing difficulties in maintaining a lifestyle that is optimal for her child can be difficult and circumstantial. Thus, she can seek support from her partner, family, and friends in strengthening her resolve.