Final answer:
Stimulant or prescription pain reliever use during pregnancy can significantly increase the risk of stillbirth in addition to other serious developmental issues for the fetus, due to the substances' teratogenic effects and impact on fetal oxygen levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
The use of stimulants or prescription pain relievers during pregnancy increases the risk of stillbirth significantly. Substances such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and prescription medications are classified as teratogens, which can interfere with fetal development and lead to serious outcomes including stillbirth, growth restriction, and central nervous system abnormalities. Opioids, such as Oxycodone and Vicodin, can cause withdrawal symptoms in newborns which may be life-threatening if not properly managed. Smoking during pregnancy, a common stimulant use, can result in a variety of adverse outcomes including preterm birth and stillbirth due to mechanisms such as the competitive binding of carbon monoxide with hemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen levels for the developing fetus.