Pregnancy Health: Illegal Drugs

When you take illegal drugs during pregnancy, you can cause harm to your baby. Quit for your baby.

Using illegal or recreational drugs (such as cannabis) during pregnancy can be harmful to your baby. They increase your risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and having your baby born prematurely or at a dangerously low birth weight. Some drugs such as methamphetamine can cause birth defects or brain damage while other drugs like heroin may cause your baby to be born addicted or dependent on drugs. The risk to your baby is even greater if you are taking drugs with alcohol.

If you need help, talk to your GP or LMC. They are there to give you support and can refer you to a local service.

The Alcohol Drug Helpline is available 24/7 for free, confidential support. Call 0800 787 797.