Women Who Use Opiates May Risk Fetal Health

Women Who Use Opiates May Risk Fetal Health

Women who take prescription pain killers shortly before or during pregnancy have a higher risk of their babies being born with serious heart conditions, according to a recent study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

The study found that women who were prescribed opioid medications, including codeine and oxycodone, were two times more likely to give birth to babies with congenital heart defects than women who did not use pain killers.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 40,000 newborns are affected by congenital heart defects each year.

While a number of factors can play a role in medication-related disorders, the CDC warns that pregnant women should be aware of the possible risks that accompany opioid use.

Pregnant women can typically suffer from back pain and muscle aches due to extra baby weight.

Instead of seeking prescription medications, mothers-to-be may consider using homeopathic pain remedies to lower their baby's risk of having drug-related health problems. A number of natural remedies that contain iron and calcium phosphates can help reduce pain and discomfort during pregnancy.