Drug and alcohol use during pregnancy has long been known to cause a range of birth defects and complications such as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, preterm delivery, and neonatal abstinence syndrome. In recent years, studies have highlighted a concerning rise in gastroschisis cases, particularly in areas with high opioid prescription rates. Gastroschisis, a severe birth defect where abdominal organs protrude outside the body, has become more common, with research showing an uptick in prevalence between 2006 and 2015. As opioid use during pregnancy continues to escalate, it’s more important than ever to understand its potential connection to this birth defect.
The Link Between Opioid Abuse and Gastroschisis
Opioids, commonly prescribed for pain management, depress the central nervous system, which can significantly affect the developing baby during pregnancy. These powerful drugs can cross the placenta, influencing the fetus’s growth and development. While opioids are sometimes necessary for pain relief, their misuse during pregnancy has been linked to a range of birth defects, including gastroschisis. Recent studies suggest that areas with higher opioid prescription rates see a rise in gastroschisis cases, especially among mothers under 20 years old.
The latest report from the CDC reveals that rates of babies being born with gastroschisis are 1.6 times higher in U.S. counties with high opioid prescription rates. The report also shows that pregnant women aged 20 and under who use prescription opioids are more likely to give birth to babies with gastroschisis than women who are older than 20 years of age.
In addition to gastroschisis, opioid use during pregnancy has been linked to other complications for both mother and baby. Research shows that opioid exposure in the womb may increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, low birthweight, and problems with the placenta. Babies exposed to opioids are also more likely to experience difficulties with growth and development before and after birth. By understanding the full scope of these risks, expectant mothers can take steps toward safer, healthier pregnancies with the right medical support.
How Can Gastroschisis Be Treated?
Surgical intervention is the primary treatment for gastroschisis. Immediately after birth, doctors carefully place the exposed organs back into the body and repair the abdominal wall. While the procedure is often successful, babies with gastroschisis face long-term challenges. Many spend months in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), dealing with issues such as digestion and nutrition. The emotional and physical toll on both the baby and the parents can be overwhelming, but with the right care, many children go on to lead healthy lives. However, though gastroschisis is treatable, babies born with this condition can remain in neonatal intensive care units for months following surgery, and may continue experiencing problems with eating, digestion, and food absorption for months, years, or indefinitely.
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS)
Another serious concern for babies exposed to opioids during pregnancy is neonatal abstinence syndrome, or NAS. NAS occurs when a baby becomes dependent on opioids in the womb and then goes through withdrawal after birth. Symptoms of NAS may include excessive crying, trouble feeding, irritability, trembling, poor sleep, and in severe cases, seizures. Some newborns may need extra time in the hospital to be monitored and supported as they recover. While NAS can be overwhelming for families, treatment with proper medical care and emotional support helps many babies improve and go on to live healthy lives.
Treating Opioid Abuse Safely During Pregnancy
If you are pregnant and suffering from opioid dependence or addiction, understand that getting help as soon as possible can improve the outcome for both you and your unborn baby. Opioid use disorder can be safely and effectively treated using medication-assisted treatment with methadone or buprenorphine. These medications can reduce drug cravings and opioid withdrawal symptoms, and are safe to use during pregnancy.
Medication-assisted treatment with methadone or buprenorphine remains the safest and most effective option for many pregnant women. These medications stabilize opioid levels in the body and reduce cravings, helping protect the baby from repeated cycles of withdrawal. Naloxone, a medication used to reverse opioid overdose, can also be prescribed during pregnancy in small, controlled doses if recommended by a provider. In addition to medical treatment, counseling and behavioral therapy play a critical role in recovery. These therapies help mothers manage stress, address co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety, and build healthy habits that support long-term recovery.
Breastfeeding and Opioid Use
Many mothers wonder if breastfeeding is safe while receiving treatment for opioid use disorder. For women who are stable on medication-assisted treatment and under a doctor’s supervision, breastfeeding is often encouraged. Breast milk can provide comfort to the baby and may even ease withdrawal symptoms in newborns with NAS. However, certain opioids such as codeine, oxycodone, and tramadol may pose risks. Mothers should always consult with their provider to make sure breastfeeding is safe based on the specific medication they are taking.
Risk Factors for Opioid Dependence in Pregnancy
Not every woman who takes prescription opioids develops dependence, but some factors can increase the risk. A family history of substance use, exposure to high levels of stress, and underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder can all make women more vulnerable to opioid misuse. Peer influence and easy access to prescription medications may also contribute. Recognizing these risk factors early can encourage women to seek support and treatment before dependence develops.
Finding Drug Rehab for Pregnant Women
Opioid addiction during pregnancy is a serious health issue, but there’s hope. Getting help early can dramatically improve outcomes for both you and your baby. If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid dependence, we encourage you to seek treatment. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way. Public health initiatives and ongoing research are crucial to tackling this epidemic, and together, we can work to reduce the risks associated with opioid use during pregnancy.
America’s Rehab Campuses offer medical drug detox and medication-assisted treatment to help pregnant women safely recover from opioid dependence while facing a reduced risk for gastroschisis and neonatal abstinence syndrome. Contact us today at 833-272-7342 or fill out our confidential contact form to begin the treatment process.
