Which of the following is a potential consequence of cocaine use during pregnancy?

Cocaine use during pregnancy is associated with several negative outcomes, one of which is microcephaly. Microcephaly is a condition where a baby is born with a smaller-than-normal head size, which can be indicative of impaired brain development. The precise mechanisms by which cocaine causes microcephaly are not fully understood, but cocaine's effects on blood flow and oxygen delivery to the fetus are believed to be significant contributors. It can constrict blood vessels, leading to reduced oxygen supply, and potentially interfere with the normal growth and development of the fetal brain.

In contrast, the option referring to increased birth weight does not align with the known effects of cocaine, as it is often associated with low birth weight due to intrauterine growth restriction. Normal fetal development is unlikely with cocaine exposure, as it has numerous teratogenic effects. Increased placental blood flow is also not a consequence of cocaine use; rather, the substance causes vasoconstriction and can adversely affect placental perfusion. Thus, the presence of microcephaly as a consequence of cocaine exposure is widely recognized and aligns with existing research on the detrimental effects of this substance during pregnancy.