Drug abuse and reproduction.

The spreading of drugs in the western world has increased dramatically, especially among young people. Over 10% of the population of the USA in reproductive age uses cannabinoids, cocaine, heroin or other drugs. Data related to Italy indicates a progressive increase in cocaine abuse, that adds up to the already dramatic rise in heroin and alcohol abuse. Although the research work on the reproductive effects of drugs has started recently and is still limited, the damages that they can cause to endocrine system, pregnancy and conceptus are clear.