The Impact of Opium Consumption on Inflammatory Factors in Umbilical Cord Blood and Maternal Blood Postpartum: A Potential Contributor to Neonatal Complications

Abstract

Opium addiction during pregnancy can have significant effects on the activity of the immune system as well as on pregnancy outcomes. A study was conducted comparing opium-addicted pregnant women to healthy pregnant women. Blood samples were taken from the maternal vein and umbilical cord immediately after delivery to measure concentrations of inflammatory markers. The results showed that the opium-addicted group had significantly higher levels of IL-6, IL-10, CRP, C3, and C4 in both maternal and cord blood samples compared to the control group. Additionally, adverse pregnancy outcomes such as NICU admissions, neonatal deaths, and low Apgar scores were more prevalent in the opium-addicted group. These findings suggest that opium addiction during pregnancy can lead to postpartum inflammation and negatively impact pregnancy outcomes. It is important to address opium addiction and provide appropriate support and treatment to pregnant women to improve pregnancy outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.