What is a potential effect of cocaine use during pregnancy?

Cocaine use during pregnancy is associated with a range of potential adverse effects on the developing fetus, with low birth weight being one of the most prominent outcomes. Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that can affect placental blood flow, leading to compromised oxygen and nutrient delivery to the fetus. This disruption can result in lower fetal growth rates, ultimately causing the infant to be born with low birth weight, which is defined as weighing less than 5.5 pounds (2,500 grams) at birth.

In addition to low birth weight, cocaine exposure during pregnancy is linked to other complications, including potential neurodevelopmental issues and increased risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The other provided options do not accurately reflect the common effects of cocaine use in pregnancy. Higher average weight for gestational age and improved fetal neurodevelopment are contrary to the well-documented risks associated with cocaine. Congenital heart defects can be influenced by a variety of factors, but cocaine is more directly linked to growth restrictions rather than specific heart anomalies. Therefore, low birth weight is the most established and relevant potential effect of cocaine use during pregnancy.