Crystal meth is a stronger version of the drug methamphetamine. The National Drug Intelligence Center indicates that there are several detrimental risks to the user such as increased blood pressure and heart rate. Damage to the blood vessels in the brain leading to stroke and potential death are the most severe risks of use. Given the detriment of using this drug, use during pregnancy has the potential for risk to the life of the fetus. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) indicates that although the knowledge of effects of methamphetamine to the fetus is limited, established studies show there are several reasons for caution in using crystal meth during pregnancy.
Birth Weight and Fetal Growth
The Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics reported in a 2006 study that fetuses exposed to methamphetamine during gestation had a higher likelihood of stunted growth during pregnancy than the unexposed fetus group. Fetal growth restriction increases the chance of the baby lacking oxygen during birth or aspirating on its own bowel movement. Fetal growth restriction also increases the risk of neurological disabilities and low blood sugar, according to the American Pregnancy Association. On the same token, low birth weight refers to the weight of the child at birth. Use of methamphetamine during pregnancy increases the risk of the child being born prematurely at a low birth weight as well as restricted growth.
Placental Abruption
The NIDA indicates that methamphetamine use may lead to placental abruption. The placenta is the protective cover of the fetus that fends off infection and harmful substances. However, crystal meth is a harsh drug with chemicals not deemed healthy for ingestion, and due to the harshness of this drug the placenta may become compromised. Placental abruption refers to the separation of the placenta from the uterus wall, which may cause internal bleeding. Placental problems reduce the flow of blood and nutrients to the fetus and may also cause complications to the mother. Placental complications increase the risk of preterm delivery and premature birth. According to the March of Dimes, any complication of the placenta directly impacts the fetus and may alter the development of the baby as well as cause harm to the mother.
Addiction
The American Pregnancy Association indicates that chronic fetal exposure to crystal meth increases the likelihood of the baby being addicted to the drug at birth. When the baby is addicted to the drug he is likely to suffer withdrawal symptoms at birth. Withdrawal symptoms include tremors, muscle spasms and sleeplessness. Research is ongoing to determine if developmental delays are a result of crystal meth use during pregnancy. However, the American Council for Drug Education suggests a high chance of ongoing cognitive problems for the child due to early addiction to meth.
