Which of the following is a potential consequence of perinatal opioid addiction?

The correct choice highlights a significant consequence associated with perinatal opioid addiction, which is the phenomenon commonly referred to as "floppy baby syndrome" or, more clinically, opioid withdrawal syndrome in newborns. This condition arises when an infant is exposed to opioids during pregnancy, leading to withdrawal symptoms after birth. Babies born with this syndrome may exhibit various symptoms, including poor muscle tone, lethargy, irritability, and feeding difficulties, which are directly connected to their mother's opioid use during gestation.

Opioid exposure in utero can disturb the normal development of the fetal nervous system and other bodily systems, leading to complications at birth. The characterization of these infants as "floppy" arises from their decreased muscle tone, making it a critical concern for healthcare providers when caring for newborns at risk of withdrawal.

The other options do not characterize potential consequences of perinatal opioid addiction accurately. For instance, increased fetal weight is not generally associated with opioid addiction; in fact, it can lead to growth restrictions. Similarly, the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is typically increased rather than reduced with opioid exposure. Finally, perinatal opioid addiction is often linked to a higher risk of preterm birth, not a lower chance