[Not Available].

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of opioid addiction on pregnancy, perinatal period, and the long-term development of mother and child. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Records of 44 opioid-dependent women and their children were analyzed. Thirty-three patients were enrolled in methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) programs or received codeine. RESULTS: Problems during pregnancy were premature rupture of membranes (n = 8), premature labor (n = 21), premature delivery (n = 9), abruption placentae (n = 2), cesarean section (n = 10), and fetal growth retardation (n = 15). Whereas MMT improved fetal growth, no influence was seen on other problems during pregnancy. Thirty newborns had significant withdrawal symptoms. One child became HIV-positive and two children required treatment for suspected congenital syphilis. One child died of sudden infant death syndrome. CONCLUSIONS: The major goal has to be the avoidance of an unwanted pregnancy. Does it still happen, the patient needs special support. If an opioid-dependent woman presents herself the first time, an anamnesis concerning drugs in addition to a general anamnesis should be arisen.