Opioids

Canada, along with many other countries, is struggling with an opioid epidemic. Opioids refer to several drugs, including prescription opioids for pain control, such as hydromorphone and oxycodone, and unregulated drugs, such as heroin.

Despite growing evidence about the risks of using opioids during pregnancy and their negative effects on the health and development of babies, an increasing number of women continue to use opioids during pregnancy. In one study from 2018, 1.1% to 1.4% of pregnant women in Canada said they used opioids.

There are safe and effective treatments available to help women manage opioid use during pregnancy. Speak with your health care provider to learn more about your options.

Effects on your baby

Opioid use during pregnancy can affect your health and the health of your baby. Opioids can alter your baby’s brain development and may lead to learning and behavioural problems that last throughout their life. Using opioids during pregnancy may increase the risk of:

• Reduced fetal growth (fetal growth restriction)
• Preterm labour
• Miscarriage and stillbirth
• Withdrawal symptoms in newborns, called neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS), which affects the nervous, gastrointestinal and respiratory systems and increases the risk of long-term learning, behavioural and developmental issues
• Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

Treatment options during pregnancy

Withdrawing from opioids suddenly (detoxification or “detox”) is not recommended for women during pregnancy. Periods of withdrawal and relapse can seriously harm the baby. There are other safe and effective treatments available to help manage opioid use during pregnancy. Speak with your health care provider to learn more about your options.