Abstract
Objective: Review and analyze the possible consequences related to drug use during the gestational period, based on a narrative review on the topic. Bibliographic Review: The use of legal and illegal chemical substances during the pregnancy period can cause several complications to both maternal and fetal health. These complications occur due to the high capacity of substances to cross the placental and blood-brain barrier, causing adverse health effects for both. The impact generated by the use of drugs in the gestational period is related to the type of substance used, dose and time of use, however among the most frequent consequences are placental vasoconstriction, premature placental detachment, miscarriage, premature labor and even fetal death. Final considerations: Based on the analysis of the effects of various chemical substances on the maternal and fetal organism, the importance of guiding health professionals on the proper monitoring of these pregnant drug users is reinforced, in order to promote qualified prenatal care and reduction of harm to mother and baby.