Cocaine and Pregnancy: How Cocaine Abuse Affects Babies of Pregnant Women

Updated December 17, 2025

An image of Karena Mathis, author for gratitude lodge
Authored By:

Karena Mathis

Edited By

Amy Leifeste

Medically Reviewed By

Sean O'Neill
MS, LMFT 112879

Explore treatment options today. For general drug info, contact your doctor.

Cocaine and Pregnancy: How Cocaine Abuse Affects Babies of Pregnant Women

Updated December 17, 2025

Authored By:

Karena Mathis

Edited By

Amy Leifeste

Explore treatment options today. For general drug info, contact your doctor.

A woman distressed, symbolizing the dangers of cocaine and pregnancy

If you’re struggling with addiction to cocaine in pregnancy, it’s important to reach out for help as soon as possible to maintain the safety of your child.

  • Improper nutrition
  • Poor pre-natal care
  • Financial stress and poverty
  • High blood pressure levels
  • Cardiovascular issues (Maternal)
  • Migraines (Maternal)
  • Seizure (Maternal)
  • Low birth weights
  • Premature births
  • Miscarriage
  • Placental absorption
  • Additional complications
  • Chronic infections
  • Problems gaining weight
  • Eating problems
  • Cognition issues
  • Vision issues
  • Cardiovascular system problems (Fetal/Child)
  • Developmental issues
  • Intellectual disabilities
  • Intracranial hemorrhage
  • Circulatory problems
  • Compromised oxygen delivery
  • Cardiovascular disorders
  • Neurological issues
  • Neurodevelopmental problems
  • Polydactyly (abnormal number of digits)
  • Cleft palate
  • Limb defects
  • Down syndrome
  • Swelling of kidneys
  • Gastroschisis
  • Small head circumference
  • Shorter length
  • Underweight at birth
  • CHDs (congenital heart diseases)
  • Limb reduction defects
  • ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder)
  • Impaired functioning during adolescence
  • Behavior problems
  • Language development problems
  • Memory issues
  • Impaired executive function
  • ODD (oppositional defiant disorder)
  • More likely to develop a substance use disorder.
  • Twice as likely to use marijuana and tobacco.
  • More likely to drink alcohol.
  • Prone to aggressive outbursts.

image of woman representing treatment for cocaine when pregnant

Cocaine Addiction Treatment at Gratitude Lodge

Studies show that most cocaine addictions respond favorably to behavioral interventions targeted to treat substance use disorders, and we utilize the most recent SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) recommendations for cocaine treatment protocols including:

  • Psychotherapies
  • Contingency management
  • Community reinforcement
  • Motivational interviewing

At Gratitude Lodge, we offer these interventions and more at our premier rehabs located in Newport Beach, Long Beach, and San Diego, CA.

Our luxury rehabs near the beach offer a safe, medically supervised detox at our inclusive and pet-friendly treatment centers. Our cocaine detox program typically lasts only about 7 days.

However, individuals who are committed to long-term recovery typically need long-term care. We partner with several hand-selected treatment centers in the local area that can provide you with outpatient care after detox. This treatment is typically covered by most PPO insurance, and can significantly reduce chances of relapse, and give you a sober community to plug in to for support after treatment.

During detox and outpatient care, you will have access to the following evidence-based and highly effective treatments:

  • Psychotherapy
  • Individual counseling
  • Group therapy
  • Family therapy
  • Holistic therapy
  • 12-step immersion program

Donโ€™t let the stigma of prenatal substance abuse stop you from getting the help you need. Take action before you cause problems for your unborn baby. For clinical and emotional care delivered without judgment, reach out to admissions by calling 844-576-0144.

Cocaine Abuse While Pregnant FAQs

How long does cocaine stay in a pregnant woman system?

This study of 30 mothers and infants where the mothers had histories of pre-natal cocaine use tested for cocaine in the urine and the amniotic fluid. The participants who had used cocaine in the three weeks before delivery tested positive. This shows that cocaine effects on pregnant woman can be detectable for almost a month after use.

What happens if you do cocaine while pregnant?

If you use cocaine while pregnant, it can have severe consequences for both you and your baby. Cocaine use during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight, developmental issues, and can lead to long-term health problems for the child, including learning disabilities and behavioral disorders.

Can using cocaine cause problems in pregnancy?

Yes, using cocaine during pregnancy can cause significant problems. It increases the risk of complications such as miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight, and can lead to long-term developmental and health issues for the baby.

Sources

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK25527/
  2. https://www.samhsa.gov/
  3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7944901/

Want to learn more?

Table of Contents

Browse Topics

an image of people learning about addiction

Not finding what youโ€™re
looking for?

Check out our addiction recovery blog to learn more about substance use disorders and how to get effective treatment.

FEATURED BLOGS

Begin your journey
to recovery.

Get evidence-based treatment in a peaceful location, with a
team of dedicated, expert staff.ย 

Related Pages

Insurance Verification Form