If you’re pregnant and using drugs – or finding it hard to stop – this can feel heavy to carry alone. You may be worried about your baby, unsure what’s safe, or unsure who to talk to.
This guide focuses on what matters for your health and your baby’s health, and the support available to you.
How Drugs Can Affect Pregnancy
During pregnancy, what goes into your body can also reach your baby. Some substances can pass through the placenta and affect how your baby grows.
Different drugs affect the body in different ways. But all controlled drugs can interfere with development. Even prescription medicines can cause harm if they’re taken in ways not advised by a doctor.
This is why doctors take drug use during pregnancy seriously, and why getting medical guidance early can make a difference.
Health Risks to You and Your Baby
Drug use during pregnancy can increase health risks for both you and your baby.
For you, this may include:
- High blood pressure
- Higher risk of miscarriage
- Problems with the placenta
For your baby, this may include:
- Being born too early
- Birth defects affecting the brain, heart, or other organs
- Higher risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
- Longer-term difficulties with learning or behaviour
- Low birth weight
- Withdrawal symptoms after birth (known as neonatal abstinence syndrome)
Not every pregnancy is affected in the same way, but the risks increase when drug use continues without medical care.
If You’re Finding It Hard to Stop
Some mums want to stop using drugs as soon as they find out they’re pregnant, but it isn’t always easy to do on their own.
If this is you, the most important first step is to talk to a doctor. Medical support helps keep both you and your baby safer during pregnancy.
Being open about what you’re using helps your healthcare team make better decisions for your care. This information is used to support your health, not to judge you.
Where You Can Get Support
You don’t have to manage this by yourself. Support can come from different places.
Doctors and healthcare teams
The KidSTART programme at KKH supports pregnant women and parents with children from 0-6 years old. They can help you understand your options, monitor your health, and support you through pregnancy.
Community services
The Singapore Anti-Narcotics Association (SANA) offers counselling, treatment support, and aftercare for people dealing with drug addiction.
Family Service Centres (FSCs)
FSC social workers may be able to help with practical concerns, such as childcare arrangements, so you can attend appointments or treatment.
Support groups and family
Some mums find it helpful to speak with others who understand what they’re going through. Family members can also play a role when they know how to support you.
When Extra Support May Be Needed
Relapse can happen, even during pregnancy. This doesn’t mean you have failed – it means more support may be needed.
Signs that extra help may be useful include:
- Big changes in mood or behaviour
- Pulling away from family or friend
- Missing prenatal appointments
- Ongoing money difficulties
- Physical signs such as track marks or unusual sleep patterns
- Struggling to manage daily responsibilities
If you notice these signs in yourself or someone close to you, it’s a signal to reach out.
How Family Members Can Help
If you’re supporting a pregnant mum, what helps most is consistency and calm.
This may include:
- Listening without judgement
- Encouraging medical follow-up
- Helping with appointments or daily routines
- Learning about treatment and support options together
Support doesn’t have to be perfect. Being present and steady matters more.
Looking Ahead
Getting support during pregnancy can reduce health risks and improve outcomes for both mum and baby. Early help gives healthcare providers more options to support a safer pregnancy.
Many mums go on to stabilise their health with the right care and support in place.
For more information on pregnancy and welcoming a newborn, visit Parent Hub
Disclaimer
This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. Speak with a doctor or qualified healthcare provider if you have questions about pregnancy, substance use, or treatment options. For more support and resources, visit Parent Hub.
Contributed By
- Health Promotion Board