MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Substance abuse during pregnancy

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Substance abuse during pregnancy

The fetus grows and develops due to the nourishment from the mother via the placenta. Along with nutrients, any toxins in the mother's system may be delivered to the fetus. These toxins often cause damage to the fragile, developing fetal organs. Depending on the organs affected, long-term effects may be severe, including mental problems such as retardation and seizures.

Update Date: 12/18/2006

Updated by: Daniel Rauch, MD, FAAP, Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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