Substance Use and Pregnancy

When you are pregnant and use drugs, tobacco or alcohol, so does your unborn baby

Using drugs, tobacco or alcohol during any part of pregnancy is unsafe.

Remember:

  • There is NO safe time, NO safe amount, and NO safe kind of alcohol to drink when pregnant.
  • If you smoke or use drugs or alcohol, be sure to use effective birth control to prevent an unplanned pregnancy.
  • Talk with your doctor about any medicine you take before you get pregnant or if you become pregnant.
  • You are not alone. Dial 2-1-1 to find resources in your area.
Mom holding and kissing a smiling baby.

Effects During Pregnancy:

Using alcohol or drugs during pregnancy can result in:

Effects After Pregnancy:

Your child could also have life-long effects, including:

  • Brain damage
  • Physical deformities
  • Intellectual disability
  • Poor coordination
  • Problems with learning
  • Behavioral problems/hyperactivity

Plan ahead… Give your baby a healthy start in life!

Drug Use & Pregnancy Risks

Street Drugs & Pregnancy- March of Dimes

Marijuana & Reproduction/Pregnancy - University of Washington

How does heroin use affect pregnant women? - National Institute on Drug Abuse

Opioid Abuse, Dependence, and Addiction in Pregnancy - American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

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Alcohol Use & Pregnancy Risks

Alcohol Use During Pregnancy - March of Dimes

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Center for Excellence - Office of Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration

Alcohol and Pregnancy - U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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Tobacco Use & Pregnancy Risks

For help to quit tobacco call the Maine Tobacco Helpline 1-800-207-1230


Additional Resources

For additional resources on how drugs and alcohol can affect your pregnancy and your baby's health visit the Maine Prevention Store.