How does cocaine impact fetal heart rate variability?

Cocaine use during pregnancy is known to have significant effects on fetal health, particularly in relation to fetal heart rate variability. When cocaine is consumed, it stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, leading to vasoconstriction and increased heart rate. This stimulation can result in decreased variability in the fetal heart rate, which reflects the fetus's reduced ability to respond to different stimuli and regulate heart rate appropriately.

Decreased heart rate variability can indicate fetal distress or adverse conditions, as it suggests the fetus may be under stress or experiencing compromised oxygenation. Therefore, the impact of cocaine leads to a concerning pattern in fetal heart rate monitoring, emphasizing the importance of avoiding such substances during pregnancy for the health of the fetus.