The Impact of Substance Use During Pregnancy on Fetal Health

Consuming alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, or other substances during pregnancy can present serious risks to the developing fetus, even if these risks aren't always immediately evident. Experts from West Virginia University emphasize that many substances, including those often perceived as harmless such as marijuana, can negatively affect fetal development. Nicotine, whether from cigarettes or vaping, has been linked to adverse effects, as have alcohol, methamphetamines, and heroin.

Dr. Aliana Abascal from the Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry at WVU highlights these dangers, especially ahead of International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Day. According to the CDC, nearly 14% of women in the U.S. report drinking alcohol while pregnant, about 8% use illicit substances, and approximately 7% smoke tobacco, with higher rates like 25% in West Virginia. Furthermore, overdose deaths among pregnant women in the U.S. have tripled from 2018 to 2021, underscoring the severity of substance use issues.

The consequences of substance use during pregnancy include miscarriage, fetal death, birth defects, impaired fetal growth, preterm birth, and immediate health issues for newborns. Long-term effects may involve neurobehavioral conditions such as intellectual disabilities, as well as withdrawal symptoms in exposed infants. Different substances pose specific risks: nicotine and cocaine increase miscarriage risk, while alcohol, nicotine, cocaine, and opioids can hamper fetal growth. Alcohol, in particular, can cause damage to the central nervous system and lead to fetal alcohol syndrome, which is permanent.

Early intervention and comprehensive medical and behavioral care are vital for infants and children exposed to substances, with some requiring mental health services to address developmental or behavioral challenges. Quitting substance use during pregnancy can be challenging, especially for women with co-occurring mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder. Treatments such as nicotine replacement therapy, although it carries some risks, are generally safer than smoking cigarettes.

Addressing substance use during pregnancy is crucial for safeguarding both maternal and fetal health. Healthcare providers recommend early screening and tailored treatment plans to improve outcomes for mothers and their children.

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