Others recognise abstinence as one option, however, due to individual circumstances, may not be possible in certain situations. Treatment is more effective if tailored to suit a person's specific situation and usually involves a combination of methods. Cocaine increases the heart rate in both the mother and baby and the supply of blood and oxygen to the baby is reduced. This means the baby is more likely to be small and grow slowly both before and after birth. If cocaine is used close to birth, the baby may be born intoxicated showing symptoms of hyperactivity and agitation.
Withdrawal symptoms can occur in the babies of mothers who use cocaine regularly.
These include sleepiness and lack of responsiveness. To date, research is inconclusive as to whether children of mothers who use cocaine experience any long-term mental or physical effects. Breastfeeding It is likely that cocaine will reach the baby through breast milk. The effect this has will depend on factors such as the amount and strength of cocaine used, and the time between using cocaine and feeding the baby. Symptoms may include the baby being irritable, unsettled and difficult to feed.