But the problem is that cocaine does more than speed mom and baby up-it also speeds up pregnancy itself, resulting in deliveries that average up to two weeks ahead of schedule. Other problems stem from the damage that cocaine can do to developing fetal tissue. Although only about 30 percent of the cocaine in the mother's bloodstream crosses the placenta, the developing fetal liver isn't able to metabolize it quickly. Other effects are less understood, but researchers worry most about the drug's possible effects on the fetal brain and central nervous system. Other problems include reduced fetal length and head circumference and a variety of physical complications, including deformations in the heart, lungs, and genitals.
Some crack babies seem to fare pretty well and show little long-term harm.
Others aren't as lucky and require a lot of help to simply have a chance at life. Behavior problems cause the most concern. Crack babies are more likely to exhibit behaviors that could limit their ability to learn and develop socially. Problems include irritability and hyperactivity, low tolerance to frustration, impulsiveness, and impaired concentration. In addition, neurological damage may show up in the form of impaired balance and coordination and other motor control problems.