Substance Use During Pregnancy Maternal Infant Health

It also helps identify polysubstance use, which may require more complex interventions. Stillbirth rates are higher among substance-using mothers, particularly those using multiple substances. Once you know you’re pregnant, talk to your doctor about all the medicines you take. Some prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are okay to use, while others are not. Do not stop or start using a new drug without talking to your doctor first.

• Due to this rapid development, any interference with normal brain development can have a significant impact on physical growth, behavior and cognition, including intelligence and language skills.
• The Women’s provide this information on the understanding that all persons accessing it take responsibility for assessing its relevance and accuracy.
• FASDs are preventable if a baby is not exposed to alcohol before birth.
• Along with counseling and behavioral therapy, medications may be used to treat opioid use disorder.

Pharmacological Treatments

It is important that pregnant women avoid use of alcohol, illicit drugs, and tobacco/nicotine in order to provide their baby with optimal growing conditions. Taking almost any drug during pregnancy can have serious consequences for the fetus. For instance, babies who are exposed to cocaine have a tendency to have smaller heads which indicate a lower IQ.

What Are the Effects of Smoking on an Unborn Baby?

This service can provide referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. Our goal is to break down the risks, discuss potential effects on your baby, and, most importantly, point you towards resources to support your journey towards a healthier pregnancy and a brighter future. In some U.S. states, substance use during pregnancy is considered child abuse under civil law. This classification can lead to serious legal ramifications for expectant mothers. Penalties may include loss of child custody, criminal charges, or mandatory treatment programs. Infections like HIV and hepatitis C are more common in pregnant women who inject drugs.

It affects fetal growth, increases the risk of birth defects, and raises the likelihood of preterm birth or stillbirth. Research continues to expand our understanding of how different substances affect fetal development. While some effects are well-documented, such as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, the long-term impacts of other substances like marijuana require further study. As policies and attitudes toward certain substances evolve, it remains essential to prioritize education, prevention, and compassionate care for pregnant women dealing with substance use issues. Certain substances, including caffeine, aspartame, alcohol, and tobacco, may have harmful effects on pregnant women and fetuses.

Some focus on punitive measures, while others emphasize rehabilitation and support. These varying strategies create a complex legal landscape for pregnant women struggling with addiction. Methadone has a longer history of use, but buprenorphine is increasingly preferred due to its safer profile and lower risk of neonatal abstinence syndrome. Substance exposure may also lead to cognitive impairments, behavioral problems, and delayed motor development in affected children. Infants exposed to substances in utero may be smaller in length, head circumference, and overall body size compared to non-exposed infants. The degree of growth restriction typically correlates with the amount and frequency of substance use.

How Do Drugs Affect a Baby’s Development During Pregnancy?

Alcohol use in the first 3 months of pregnancy can cause the baby to have abnormal facial features. Growth and central nervous system problems (for example, low birthweight, behavioral problems) can occur from alcohol use anytime during pregnancy. The baby’s brain is developing throughout pregnancy and can be affected by exposure to alcohol at any time. Additionally, e-cigarettes and other tobacco products containing nicotine are not safe during pregnancy.

What Are Babies Born With Exposure to Drugs Called?

The safest option is to avoid alcohol during breastfeeding as alcohol can find its way into your breast milk. Regular drinking during breastfeeding may affect your baby’s development. The more you drink, the more your baby’s growth will be affected and the less healthy your baby will be.

This page encourages pregnant people with opioid use disorder (OUD) to start treatment with methadone or buprenorphine. It also highlights the benefits of medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) during pregnancy. Drinking heavily during pregnancy can cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) or fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). Pregnant women with substance use disorders may face judgment from family, friends, and even healthcare professionals. This social stigma can lead to isolation and reluctance to what is alcoholism seek help. Postpartum care is critical for maintaining recovery and preventing relapse.

CDC activities to address opioid use during pregnancy

Your midwife will offer you information and support on how to cut down or stop drinking alcohol. There is no proven safe amount of alcohol a woman can drink during pregnancy. The information here aims to help you better understand your health and your options for treatment and care. Your healthcare team is there to support you in making decisions that are right for you.

Routine urine toxicology screening during prenatal visits can detect recent substance use. This non-invasive method helps clinicians make informed decisions about prenatal care and addiction treatment. Early identification allows for prompt referrals to specialized services and support programs.

Health Categories to Explore

There are many harmful gases in marijuana smoke that can be passed along to your baby, increasing the risk for complications. Smoking marijuana during pregnancy may increase the chances that your baby will have a bowel movement while inside the womb, which can cause early onset of labor and fetal distress. Marijuana use can also result in poor growth, behavioral problems, and breathing problems. The consequences of prenatal substance use differ depending on the specific substances used. The most commonly used substances include alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/how-addictive-is-oxycontin/ and opioids.