Pregnancy, labor, and even the postpartum period are uncomfortable for most women. You get confused about different things. What to do and what not to do? One of the main concerns is the topic of medications, and a common question is: can we take morphine during pregnancy?
It is a crucial subject. Let’s talk about it in detail.
Table of Contents
What is Morphine?
Morphine is a common pain-relieving medication.
It is a potent opioid analgesic derived from the opium poppy plant. People have been using morphine for centuries to manage severe pain.
This medication binds to specific pain receptors in the nervous system, reducing pain perception.
It has effectiveness, and that’s why doctors prescribe it for post-surgical pain, cancer-related pain, and other medical conditions that cause intense discomfort.
Why Do People Take Morphine?
Morphine controls severe pain adequately, which is usually not managed by other pain medications. That’s why morphine has been a favorite among pain medications in the medical world.
It often helps conditions like post-operative pain, terminal illnesses such as cancer, and chronic pain that don’t respond well to less potent pain relievers.
Doctor Recommendation: Do not self-medicate during pregnancy. Instead, talk to professional doctors like Dr. Rabia Nosheen to help you in this physically challenging yet crucial phase of life.
What are the Risks of Taking Morphine During Pregnancy?
Using morphine during pregnancy poses significant risks to the mother’s health. Let’s understand the potential consequences:
Respiratory Issues
Morphine is a central nervous system depressant, and its use during pregnancy can lead to respiratory depression in the mother. It means that the woman may experience slowed or shallow breathing, posing a risk to her respiratory function.
Morphine Dependency
There is a risk of developing dependence or addiction to morphine.
Opioids like morphine have a potential for abuse, and prolonged use can lead to physical dependence. It can make it challenging for the mother to stop using the drug without experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
Mental Health Concerns
Opioid use, including morphine during pregnancy, may contribute to mental health issues for the mother. It can include an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders, affecting the overall well-being of the pregnant woman.
Increased Risk of Accidents
Opioids like morphine can cause drowsiness and impair cognitive function.
Pregnant women using morphine may be at an increased risk of accidents or injuries due to reduced alertness and coordination, which can have implications for both maternal and fetal well-being.
Impact on Labor and Delivery
The use of morphine may affect the course of labor and delivery. It can lead to changes in uterine contractions and may necessitate additional monitoring or interventions during childbirth.
It can contribute to an overall more complex delivery process.
Breastfeeding Considerations
If a mother uses morphine during pregnancy, there are considerations regarding breastfeeding. Morphine can pass into breast milk, potentially exposing the infant to the drug.
It requires careful evaluation of the risks and benefits of breastfeeding in the context of maternal morphine use.
Increased Risk of Overdose
When it comes to opioids like morphine, the risk of overdose is always there. Overdose can result in severe respiratory depression, loss of consciousness, and, in extreme cases, death.
It emphasizes the importance of closely monitoring dosage and usage according to what your gynecologist says.
Suggested Read: Drug Abuse and Addiction: What to Do to Protect Your Loved Ones?
What are the Risks to an Unborn Baby Exposed to Morphine?
Exposure to morphine during pregnancy not only poses risks for the mother but for the unborn baby as well.
Before taking too much morphine during pregnancy, keep in mind these potential consequences for your baby:
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome
The developing fetus can become dependent on morphine, leading to withdrawal symptoms after birth.
This syndrome can manifest with symptoms such as irritability, feeding difficulties, tremors, and, in severe cases, seizures.
Respiratory Distress
Morphine can depress the respiratory system of the unborn baby. It may result in respiratory distress, characterized by difficulties in breathing, which can be a severe concern for the baby’s overall health and development.
Low Birth Weight
Prenatal exposure to morphine can lead to an increased risk of low birth weight.
Babies born with low birth weight may face health challenges and have a higher likelihood of complications both immediately after birth and in the long term.
Preterm Birth
There is an elevated risk of preterm birth when a pregnant woman uses morphine.
Premature birth can expose the baby to a range of health issues, including respiratory problems, developmental delays, and a higher susceptibility to infections.
Long-term Cognitive Impacts
Prenatal exposure to opioids like morphine may have lasting effects on the child’s cognitive development.
It can lead to challenges in academic performance, learning difficulties, and behavioral issues as the child grows up.
Impact on the Central Nervous System
Morphine can affect the central nervous system of the developing fetus. This impact can lead to alterations in the development of the brain and may contribute to long-term neurological consequences for the child.
Bottom Line on Morphine Use During Pregnancy!
Sometimes, doctors might suggest using morphine for severe pain during pregnancy or after giving birth. But it’s crucial to consider this only if other pain relief methods haven’t worked.
That’s because morphine can bring risks for both you and your baby. These risks include the possibility of miscarriage, delivering the baby too early, or defects in the baby.
Using morphine for a short time, especially after giving birth, is usually safe. However, using it for a long time increases the chances of complications.
Talk to your doctor if you are struggling with pain during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. You can book an appointment with one of the best gynecologists near you via Healthwire’s platform.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1- What Pain Relief is Safe During Pregnancy?
Paracetamol is a relatively safe painkiller that you can use during pregnancy and after childbirth. It works by relieving pain and reducing high temperature and fever.
2- Is Tramadol Safe in Pregnancy?
Tramadol is usually not recommended during pregnancy. It is another opioid and can have an addicting impact on you and your baby.
3- Can Too Many Painkillers Cause a Miscarriage?
Research shows that taking certain painkillers during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage by 2.4 times. These painkillers may include aspirin, ibuprofen, etc. Talk to your gynecologist before taking any medication during pregnancy.
