Drug screening during the first prenatal visit is the most critical and comprehensive way to ensure the health of the fetus and the mother. As per the United States Supreme court, no hospital or health organization could conduct a 5-panel drug test during pregnancy without your valid consent or warrant. This blog will help you with all the information that you need to know about drug testing during pregnancy.
Why do Hospitals drug test during pregnancy?
The use of illegal drugs has skyrocketed in the United States, and the U.S. government is taking multiple steps to keep things under control. Among other illicit drugs, Marijuana is the most common illegal drug used commonly among the American population, including pregnant women. According to one survey, Marijuana usage has increased from 4.2 percent to 7.2 percent since 2009. Some women continue to use cannabis during pregnancy as it helps them to combat the anxiety and stress that happens during pregnancy.
Most hospitals might conduct placenta drug testing for mothers to identify the drug usage and the possibilities of drugs passing from the mother to the child via the umbilical cord.
Placenta Drug testing – What is the need?
Placenta drug testing is an option that the hospital can provide to the patient to check whether they are overdosed by drugs (both illegal and prescription) and travel to the child and create an undeniable impact. This is a voluntary drug test that the patient can take to know about their drug levels or have a history of drug abuse.
But this placenta drug test becomes mandatory during custody disputes, or you have tested positive at childbirth. This drug test can be used as evidence against you in court during custody dispute cases.
How far back can placenta drug testing go?
The placenta drug testing might go for a detection window of 20 weeks before the child’s birth. So, any illegal drug taken during that time can be easily traced by the tester. The tester might use the umbilical cord sample that connects the fetus to the placenta. If you test positive, this could pose a problem for your child custody.
How to pass my drug test during pregnancy?
Staying away from the drugs will be the best way to prevent positive results during pregnancy and placenta drug testing. If you have a history of drug abuse, it is time to consult your doctor and follow detoxification measures to eliminate the drug traces from the system. This will improve not only your health but also your child’s health.
Final words
Even though the drug test during pregnancy is optional, it is best to refrain from drugs for at least 20 to 30 weeks during pregnancy that can prevent you from losing custody of your child.
