Health Effects of Methamphetamine Used in Pregnant Women and Newborn in Sukhothi Hospital, Thailand

Abstract

Methamphetamine use during pregnancy is an important public health concern because of its adverse effects on maternal and neonatal health. This study aimed to investigate maternal health outcomes among pregnant women with positive urine amphetamine screening, examine neonatal outcomes, compare outcomes between women with positive and negative urine amphetamine results, and provide recommendations for improving the care system. A matched case–control study with a 1:1 ratio was conducted among pregnant women attending antenatal care or delivery services at Sukhothai Hospital in 2024. The case group consisted of 17 pregnant women with positive urine methamphetamine results, and the control group included 17 pregnant women with negative results, matched by maternal age. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The median age was similar between groups: 30 years (IQR 25–36) in the case group and 29 years (IQR 22–37) in the control group. Women in the case group were more likely to initiate antenatal care within the first 12 weeks of gestation. Maternal complications in the case group included anemia in 8 women and pregnancy-induced hypertension in 2 women. Neonatal outcomes included 4 preterm births and 4 infants with birth weight below 2,500 grams. Women with positive methamphetamine screening had a significantly higher risk of anemia than controls (OR = 6.67; 95% CI: 1.15–38.59; p = 0.02). Higher odds of pregnancy-induced hypertension, cesarean delivery, preterm birth, and low birth weight were also observed in the exposed group, although these associations were not statistically significant. In conclusion, methamphetamine use during pregnancy was associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes, particularly maternal anemia, and may increase the risk of other pregnancy complications. Comprehensive multidisciplinary screening, treatment, and continuity of care from antenatal to postpartum periods are recommended.