Illicit Drug Use During Pregnancy: Examining Neonatal Outcomes


Sophie Rienecker, A/Prof John Preddy, Dr Rakesh Seth, Dr Syed Haris

Background

Illicit drug use during pregnancy may result in serious medical implications for the neonate. There is a paucity of literature available regarding the specific effects of maternal illicit drug use during pregnancy, especially in rural centres. The aims of this study were to determine neonatal outcomes and maternal characteristics associated with illicit drug use during pregnancy in a regional setting.

Methodology

A retrospective cohort study was conducted. Neonates born from 2014-2019 at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital were included in the study. The sample population consisted of 186 neonates known to be exposed to illicit drugs. Outcomes were compared to a control group consisting of 186 randomly selected neonates not known to be exposed to illicit drugs.

Results

Results indicated that neonates exposed to illicit drugs in utero were more likely to be premature (12% vs 5%), have lower birth weight (2993g vs 3387g), higher rates of admissions to the special care nursery (36% vs 17%) and higher rates of neonatal abstinence syndrome (13% vs 0%). These results were all statistically significant. Maternal characteristics that were significantly associated with illicit drug use during pregnancy included younger women (26 years vs 29 years), lower gravida (1 vs 3), less antenatal visits (9 vs 12), more likely to smoke tobacco during pregnancy (81% vs 21%), higher rates of hepatitis C (18% vs 0%), less likely to be married (37% vs 73%) and less likely to have private health cover (0% vs 19%).

Conclusion

This study indicated acute neonatal outcomes associated with illicit drug use and the complications related to these outcomes. This allows for preparation and anticipation of potential long-term complications. This study highlights the need for further interventions, particularly regarding antenatal care, that reduce maternal illicit drug use and mitigate its complications.