When you’re pregnant, every decision you make can affect your baby’s health. Using substances like illegal drugs, alcohol, or tobacco during pregnancy can increase the risk of serious health problems for both you and your baby. Understanding the dangers can help you make safer choices and protect your baby’s future.
Illegal or Street Drugs | |
| Mom | Baby |
| Miscarriage | Poor growth |
| Preterm labor | Condition present at birth |
| Placenta problems | Infections like Hepatitis and HIV |
| Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (withdrawal symptoms) | |
Alcohol | |
| Mom | Baby |
| Miscarriage | Low birth weight |
| Preterm labor | Mental impairments |
| Stillbirth | Slow growth |
| Behavioral problems | |
| Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) | |
Smoking or Vaping | |
| Mom | Baby |
| Preterm labor | Poor growth |
| Ectopic pregnancy | Condition present at birth |
| Vaginal bleeding | Breathing problems |
| Placenta problems | Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) |
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How Substance Use Can Affect Your Baby
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS)
NAS occurs when a baby is exposed to opioids or other addictive substances during pregnancy. After birth, babies may experience withdrawal symptoms like:
- Shaking
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Loud, high-pitched crying
- Trouble feeding
- Fever and sweating
- Rapid breathing
- Diaper rash
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
SIDS is the sudden and unexplained death of a baby under the age of one, often during sleep. Smoking during pregnancy increases this risk.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs)
FASDs include a range of lifelong physical, behavioral, and learning problems caused by alcohol use during pregnancy. Every baby is affected differently, but the effects can be long-lasting and severe.
Taking Care Starts Now
Avoiding harmful substances during pregnancy is one of the best things you can do for your baby’s health. If you need help quitting, talk to your healthcare provider. Your choices today can lead to a healthier tomorrow for you and your baby.