The number of pregnant mothers who abuse drugs is in on the rise.
A study released last week shows the impact this has on kids in West Virginia.

The West Virginia Paternal Partnership found more than 800 babies born in West Virginia in a one year period had mothers who abused drugs during their pregnancy.

Judi Ball who is the administrative director of the Family Crisis Intervention Center witnesses pregnant mothers who have abused drugs. "When women are pregnant that is the most often time that women are abused. In many ways its makes sense that a women whose being controlled or manipulated or abused by a partner would be taking drugs or alcohol while shes pregnant."

The reality though can be harsh for women who abuse drugs while pregnant. Ball says, "To be honest with you those women dont get to keep their kids for very long. CPS generally steps in and either removes the children for a while till the parent gets sober and can take care of their children or the parent can never get sober and they lose the rights to their children."

Judi Ball has been helping victims for the last 30 years and she has seen an increase in complex cases due to alcohol and drug related issues and sometimes the road to recovery can be a difficult one.

Ball explains, "We try everyday to give them the ability. We safety plan we give them parenting classes we hope they can move forward in their lives and make good choices. And many, many, many of the victims we have served over the years have certainly done that. They go on to live wonderful lives with very bright and happy children.

If you are abusing drugs while pregnant and need help it's only a simple phone call away.

Family Crisis Intervention Center 304.428.2333

Outside of Wood County 1.800.794.2335