Addiction and Pregnancy: A Guide For Mothers

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• Drugs can cross the placental barrier, leading to
  various effects.
• An increased risk of complications include
• Preterm labor
• Injury to the fetus
• Reduced oxygen and/or nutrient supply
• Low birth weight
• Abnormal development

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• The baby can be born addicted to drugs, putting
  them at risk from withdrawals (Neonatal
  Abstinence Syndrome or NAS).
• Can lead to birth defects, even in the case of
  prescription drugs. Approximately 2-3 of birth
  defects are caused by drugs taken to treat a
  symptom or disorder.¹
• May be life-threatening for both mom and baby.

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• In addition to physical complications of drug
  use, addiction can make it harder to manage
  responsibilities like medical appointments and
  labor planning.
• Stress can be a trigger for drug or alcohol use.
  Being pregnant and preparing to raise a child can
  put additional pressure on a mother.
• It can be challenging to find a substance abuse
  rehab program that addresses the addiction as
  well as the unique needs of a pregnant woman.

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• Talk at length with your doctor about what you
  can expect, how your addiction will affect your
  pregnancy, and if they can provide any beneficial
  treatment.
• Look into rehabilitation options and support
  groups. Women who have had similar experiences
  can provide important insights and advice.
• Enlist the aid of loved ones (friends, family,
  partner) to help you keep track of appointments,
  prepare your home for a child, etc.

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• A pregnant woman can still go through an
  addiction treatment program, so long as the plan
  considers her needs and involves careful
  monitoring.
• Certain medications and methods may be used to
  assist with rehab, so long as any risks to the
  pregnancy are deemed acceptable by doctors.
• For example, an opioid-addicted mother may be
  given methadone during pregnancy. The baby will
  likely still be born with NAS, but methadone
  should reduce the intensity of NAS symptoms.

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• Stay vigilant and be extra cautious to avoid
  potentially triggering situations. The emotional
  ups and downs of pregnancy can make you more
  vulnerable.
• Continue to do your usual recovery work,
  attending 12-step meetings or counseling
  appointments as usual.
• Seek support from other moms, including those who
  are also in recovery from addiction.

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• Get excited about the pregnancy just like any
  other (baby shower, nursery prep, other
  traditions)every mother and child deserve to be
  celebrated!
• Help mom find addiction recovery programs or
  continue to encourage her through recovery.
• Whether the person is still addicted or in
  recovery, remain positive and focused on the
  possibilities of the future, not the missteps of
  the past.

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• Adelante Recovery Center is a professional
  addiction treatment facility in Orange County,
  California. In our residential inpatient and
  intensive outpatient programs, clients are able
  to escape dependency and build the skills they
  need to lead a healthy, happy future.
• To learn more about our treatment options, visit
  www.adelanterecovery.com.

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• https//www.merckmanuals.com/home/women-s-health-i
  ssues/drug-use-during-pregnancy/drug-use-during-pr
  egnancy