Abstract

During the early months of pregnancy, cocaine exposure may increase the risk of miscarriage. Later in pregnancy, cocaine use can cause placental abruption. Placental abruption can lead to severe bleeding, preterm birth, and fetal death. Women who use cocaine throughout their pregnancy have the risk of an increased chance of premature labor and birth defect. In addition babies may also have a smaller head and have their growth hindered. Babies who are exposed to cocaine later in pregnancy may be born dependent and suffer from withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, sleeplessness, muscle spasms, and feeding difficulties. The effects of prenatal cocaine exposure (PCE) have been examined in infants and young children across multiple developmental domains (e.g., growth, intelligence, language, motor, attention, and neurophysiology). Studies revealed that in most domains, the neurobiological effects of PCE play a subtle role, with effects no greater than other known teratogens or environmental factors. Associations between PCE and negative developmental outcomes were typically attenuated when models included conditions that commonly co-occur with PCE (eg. tobacco or alcohol exposure, malnutrition, poor quality of care). Some investigations suggest that learning difficulties may result as the child gets older. Defects of the genitals, kidneys, and brain are also possible. The aim of this review is to provide information regarding the prenatal exposure and the associated impact on placental function and pregnancy outcomes.

Highlights

  • Substance abuse in pregnancy has increased over the past three decades in the United States [1]

  • Cocaine use in pregnancy can lead to spontaneous abortion, preterm births, placental abruption, and congenital anomalies

  • The aim of this review is to provide information regarding the prenatal cocaine exposure (PCE) and the associated impact on placental function and pregnancy outcomes

Read more

Summary

Introduction

Substance abuse in pregnancy has increased over the past three decades in the United States [1]. A National survey on drug Use and Health from 2002-2003 has estimated that 4.3% of pregnant women aged 15-44 years reported illicit drug use within the month to being questioned [1,2]. 250,000 women in the United State, of whom 90% are of childbearing age with criteria for intravenous drug, resulting in approximately 225,000 infants yearly with prenatal exposure to illicit substances. Legal and illegal substances and their effect on pregnancy have recently reviewed include opiates, cocaine, alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and amphetamines [3]. Illicit drug use during pregnancy is a major risk factor for maternal morbidity and neonatal complications. Mothers using cocaine require specialized prenatal care and the neonate may require extra supportive care

Objectives
Methods
Findings
Conclusion
Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.