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Cocaine Abuse and Pregnancy

In 1992, a national survey found that around forty-five thousand women were chronic abusers of cocaine. Of those women, how many were pregnant? The exact number is unknown, but what is known is that cocaine poses a serious danger to unborn babies when it is taken while the mother is pregnant. Problems can be minor or severe and can range from developmental problems to miscarriages.

At The Canyon, we provide alcohol and drug rehab and treatment to people who are suffering from substance abuse and addiction problems, including pregnant women struggling with cocaine addiction. We can help you overcome your addiction and protect both your life and the life of your unborn child.

Cocaine Abuse and Its Threat to the Fetus

One of the most devastating possible complications that can arise during pregnancy when cocaine is used is miscarriage. This may occur early on or later in the pregnancy. The child is also at risk for a heart attack or stroke, much like the mother, and can die as a result. Another possibility is a premature birth, which can lead to serious developmental problems and even death if cocaine is used in the later stages of pregnancy.

Children who are born prematurely have problems such as low body weight, problems getting oxygen through the body, a smaller brain and/or smaller head. The risk of having a baby prematurely is at least doubled when you take cocaine during pregnancy, and due to the problems that commonly arise with premature births, death of the child is not uncommon. A condition called placental abruption can also occur if you use cocaine, and this condition can lead to the death of both the baby and the mother.

Cocaine Abuse During Pregnancy: Physiologic Effects

Women and unborn children both can suffer from the effects of cocaine when it is taken during pregnancy. The mother may suffer from weight gain and cardiac problems, which can in turn lead to problems for the developing fetus. Seizures, strokes, heart attacks and abnormal heart rhythms are all possibilities when cocaine abuse or addiction is present during pregnancy and can be fatal to both the mother and child. Toxins found in cocaine can affect the nervous system and cause placental abruption and death to the mother.

Additionally, physiological effects can be serious and even fatal, including things like hypertension and vasoconstriction. Vasoconstriction in particular is dangerous because it limits the flow of oxygen and nutrients so the developing fetus, which means that the baby does not receive what it requires to properly mature. The end result is that the mother may give birth prematurely or miscarry.

Cocaine Rehab at The Canyon

The Canyon's Healing Life Program provides help to those who are suffering from alcohol or drug abuse and addiction and who want to turn their life around, including women who are pregnant and suffering from cocaine addiction. With the help of our uniquely qualified staff and our range of traditional and nontraditional treatments, you are given the chance to awaken an authentic relationship with life, reclaim your personal goals and dreams and develop a positive relationship with yourself. With the help of The Canyon, you can break your addiction and return to a healthier, more positive life, free from the troubles and woes of cocaine addiction. Contact us today at for more information.