Prolonged morphine exposure <b><i>in utero</i></b> causes fetal and placental vasoconstriction: A case report

Abstract

Vasoconstriction was observed in the fetal middle cerebral and umbilical arteries by Doppler assessment at 27 weeks gestation in a patient requiring continuous morphine infusion for pain control. Fetal heart tracings were also concerning. Fetal status improved after a change to fentanyl infusion, a shorter acting opioid. Caution is recommended when long-term chronic narcotic infusion is used in pregnancy.