What babies experience when exposed to drugs, alcohol, or tobacco in the womb—and how to support their recovery.

Maternal substance use may include any combination of drug, chemical, alcohol, and tobacco consumption during pregnancy.

While in the womb, a fetus grows and develops by receiving nutrients from the mother through the placenta. However, along with those nutrients, any toxins present in the mother’s system can also be passed on to the fetus. These toxins can damage developing fetal organs, and the baby may even become dependent on the substances the mother used.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms Seen in a Baby Born to a Mother with Substance Use?

Babies born to mothers who used drugs may experience both short- and long-term effects.

Short-term withdrawal symptoms may be as mild as irritability. More severe symptoms can include jittery or irritable behavior, feeding difficulties, and diarrhea. Symptoms vary depending on the specific substances used.

A diagnosis for babies showing signs of withdrawal can be confirmed through toxicology tests of the baby’s urine, stool, or umbilical cord. The mother’s urine can also be tested. However, if samples are not collected quickly enough, results may be negative.

More serious long-term developmental problems can occur in babies born with growth delays or multiple organ complications.

Babies of mothers who consumed alcohol—even in moderate amounts—may be born with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS). This condition involves growth delays, unusual facial features, and intellectual disability, and may not be detectable at birth.

Other drugs can lead to birth defects involving the heart, brain, intestines, or kidneys.

Babies exposed to drugs, alcohol, or tobacco during pregnancy are at higher risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

How Is a Baby Born to a Mother with Substance Use Treated?

Treatment depends on the substances the mother used. It may include:

  • Reducing noise and bright lights
  • Providing maximum Tender Loving Care (TLC), including skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding (with mothers in treatment or no longer using illicit drugs)
  • Administering medications, if necessary

For babies exposed to narcotics, small doses of medication may be used to manage withdrawal. The dosage is gradually reduced over days or weeks. In some cases, sedatives are also used.

Babies with organ damage, birth defects, or developmental issues may require medical or surgical care and long-term developmental support.

These babies are also more likely to grow up in environments that may not support their emotional, social, and mental health. Long-term family support services can make a significant difference.