Substance Abuse and Pregnancy.

In the United States, between 2007 and 2008, about 5% of pregnant women aged 15-44 years admitted to illicit drug use within the last month. Polysubstance use is common and complicates management of the mother and neonate, particularly when managing drug withdrawal. Numerous comorbidities and social issues often coexist, including poor nutrition, lack of prenatal care, sexually transmitted diseases, HIV, viral hepatitis, psychiatric disorders, domestic violence, accidents and trauma. Adverse effects of maternal substance abuse on the fetus are related to the timing and degree of exposure to the agent, as well as individual genetic susceptibility. Environmental influences may enhance detrimental effects or act as confounders when studying long-term outcomes. Routine perinatal screening for substance use is encouraged by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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