The Safety of Maternal Opioid Use in Chronic Illness Related to Newborn Withdrawal

Opioid medication is commonly prescribed to those with chronic illness that experience long-term pain. This type of medication is necessary, but also produces severe adverse effects if suddenly discontinued. In women with chronic illness that need opioid medication for chronic non-cancer pain, caution is used to prevent pregnancy because of the negative effects opioids have on the fetus. Opioids can cause miscarriage, premature birth, various birth defects, and neonatal abstinence syndrome; however, they are still being prescribed for women who may become or are already pregnant. This literature review was conducted to investigate the current policies related to maternal opioid use in chronic illness. Prescription opioid policies for chronic illness pain and during pregnancy are thoroughly discussed, and connections are made between the two populations to form recommendations for maternal opioid use in chronic illness. The themes of the literature review include, the importance of attempting more conservative treatment options before introducing opioids, the provider’s responsibility to review family planning and effects of long-term opioid use, and the necessity of routine monitoring of mother and fetus. Opioid prescriptions are necessary for women that experience pain associated with chronic illness, but recommendations specific to this population should be addressed to avoid unnecessary complications