How does drugs affect the baby when pregnant?
Women who use narcotics during pregnancy are at increased risk for preterm labor and delivery. They are also more likely to deliver a stillborn baby or a baby with growth problems. Babies exposed to narcotics in utero are at increased risk for neonatal death.
Which drugs can cause damage to an unborn baby?
Each of the following drugs or drug groups may cause birth defects in a developing fetus:ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitors.angiotensin II antagonist.isotretinoin (an acne drug)alcohol.cocaine.high doses of vitamin A.lithium.male hormones.More items...
How do drugs cause birth defects?
However, drugs that do not cross the placenta may still harm the fetus by affecting the uterus or the placenta. Drugs that a pregnant woman takes during pregnancy can affect the fetus in several ways: They can act directly on the fetus, causing damage, abnormal development (leading to birth defects.
What problems do drug babies have?
Babies exposed to drugs in utero may experience developmental consequences including impaired growth, birth defects, and altered brain development. Prenatal drug exposure may impact the child's behavior, language, cognition, and achievement long term.
How does drugs affect a child's development?
When a child is born already addicted to drugs, it can cause many physical and developmental issues for them in early life and down the line in adulthood. This includes medical disorders affecting their organs due to delayed development in the womb, but also mental disabilities or underdeveloped cognitive abilities.