Using illegal or street drugs during pregnancy, including cannabis, ecstasy, cocaine and heroin, can have a potentially serious effect on your unborn baby.

If you regularly use drugs, it's important to tackle this now you're pregnant. It's best not to stop abruptly without first seeking medical advice as there may be withdrawal problems or other side effects.

Credit:

IAN HOOTON/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Getting help

If you use drugs, it's important to seek help straight away so you can get the right advice and support.

You can get help from:

• your maternity team
• your GP
• specialist treatment services

They won't judge you and can help you access a wide range of other services, such as antenatal and family support.

You can also contact FRANK for friendly, confidential drugs advice, including information on the different types of help available. The FRANK helpline is open every day, 24 hours a day on 0300 123 6600.

For more information about what drug treatment entails, see the National Treatment Agency for Substance Misuse website.

What if I took drugs before I knew I was pregnant?

If you took a drug without realising you were pregnant on a one-off occasion, try not to worry – it's very unlikely to have affected your baby.

However, if illegal drugs are part of your life, getting help can really improve the outlook for you and your baby.