While this is not necessarily indicative of fetal withdrawal, it is not normal behavior. Some research has found that providing a split dose of methadone, twice per day, has helped to normalize fetal activity. Potential parents need to be informed about the effects that opioid use can have on fertility, pregnancy and childbirth. They also need to know about potential increased risks to the baby's health over the longer term. During pregnancy, women are often more than normally receptive to health-related information and are motivated to change their drug use behavior.
Research shows that even cutting down drug use during pregnancy can significantly reduce risks.
When drug problems are identified and successfully handled during pregnancy, the woman's physical and mental health is improved, and the capacity for healthy childbearing and childrearing is also increased.