Meth Abuse: Women Have More to Lose Than Men
Methamphetamine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that comes under the family of amphetamines. This man-made drug is extremely potent and can wreak havoc upon misuse by inflicting physical and mental health consequences. The consumption of this medicine is restricted to the cases related to intractable attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and severe obesity.
Methamphetamine, also known as meth, crystal meth, chalk, crank, ice and speed, is taken in by smoking, inhaling, swallowing, snorting and injecting into the veins. When it enters a person’s system, it metabolizes and eventually reaches the brain. It increases the production of naturally occurring neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain, which is the key regulator of pleasure, movement, emotions, etc.

Considering the above functions of dopamine, any increase in its level causes a euphoric high, also known as “rush” or “flash,” and affects other cognitive behavioral functions, such as body movement, motivation, memory, etc. Although the effects of meth are best summed as horrific in nature, gender of the user also makes a difference.
Short-term effects of meth among women
Continuous abuse of meth increases the risk of developing dependence that can gradually lead to an addiction to meth. Irrespective of when and how many times a person has consumed meth, some of the immediate impacts witnessed by both men and women include the following:
• Increased wakefulness and physical activity
• Decreased appetite
• Faster breathing and irregular heartbeat
• Increased blood pressure and body temperature
The short-term effects and risk of meth abuse are amplified if the user has an undiagnosed heart condition. Reports suggest that the feeling of nausea, panic, agitation and violent tendencies are common among the meth users.
Meth has been used notoriously as a date rape drug and has properties that stimulate sexual tendencies. Compared to men, women are more likely to engage in sexual activities under the influence of meth. In fact, the risk persists even when the drug has been used just once. For women, this causes a major concern for increasing the risk of witnessing physical and sexual abuse, contracting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and unplanned pregnancy.
Impact of long-term meth use on menstruation
An individual who has continued to use meth frequently over a long period of time experiences its harsh effects that dwarf the short-term effects. They not only regress physically and mentally, but also degenerate cognitively and behaviorally. Moreover, even when users quit using meth, its impact persists for years.
The long-term effects of meth are synonymous with diminishment in cognitive functions that control the process of thinking, learning and remembering. Some of the common physical changes include severe weight loss, dental problems, sores on the skin due to scratching, etc. Besides inflicting physical changes, people can witness psychological problems, such as hallucinations, apathy, depression, psychosis, etc.
These individuals are more likely to contract STDs, such as syphilis and HIV/AIDS, because of the practice of sharing needles and engaging in unprotected sex. Studies have found that meth use can worsen the symptoms of STDs compared to individuals with STDs who do not use meth.
Women, who have abused meth for a long time, report negative effects on their menstrual cycle. Therefore, abnormal bleeding during menstruation, irregular periods and disruption of the natural cycle are commonly reported by women indulging in meth. Frequent use of meth eventually changes the way dopamine is produced in the brain or the production of sex hormones in the body.
By indulging in meth during pregnancy, the woman and her unborn child are likely to witness severe consequences. The child also runs the risk of being born with multiple birth defects, such as congenital defects of the central system, heart problems, cleft palate and other physical defects. They are more likely to be born prematurely and experience development problems that can persist throughout their lives.
Stop meth abuse and ask for help
Though the effects of meth are quite similar in both the sexes, women have a lot more to lose in the long run. Gender differences cause changes in the way the body and brain react to meth. Women also have to consider the consequences of abuse of meth and other substances on their child. It is advisable to seek professional help to avoid the aggravation of this terrible addiction.
If you or your loved one is battling an addiction to methamphetamine or any other substance, get in touch with Sovereign Health to gain access to the latest and innovative treatment methods at one of our state-of-the-art facilities. Our rehab in Arizona is one of the best methamphetamine detox centers for women in the country. Call at our 24/7 helpline number 866–598–5661 to know more about the methamphetamine detox centers or information on our comprehensive evidence-based treatment plans.
