Drug & Alcohol Rehab Centers for Pregnant Women

Pregnancy is a time of significant change, both physically and emotionally. It’s common to re-evaluate priorities and focus on health and well-being. If you’re pregnant and struggling with drug or alcohol use, it’s important to know that you’re not alone, and help is available. Specialized rehab centers offer a safe and supportive environment for pregnant individuals to address substance use while receiving comprehensive care. Taking this courageous step towards recovery can lead to a healthier future for both you and your baby.

Health Considerations: Substance Use During Pregnancy

Substance use during pregnancy can pose health risks to both the parent and the developing baby. These risks can vary depending on several factors, including the type of substance used, the frequency of use, and the stage of pregnancy.

Potential concerns associated with substance use during pregnancy include:^1-5

• Pregnancy complications: Premature birth, miscarriage, placental abruption.
• Infant health challenges: Low birth weight, developmental delays, withdrawal symptoms after birth (Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome or NAS).
• Long-term health effects: Increased risk of birth defects, such as heart defects, and developmental disorders like Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs).

It’s important to emphasize that seeking help for substance use is crucial for the well-being of both parent and baby. Early intervention and prenatal care can significantly reduce risks and improve outcomes.⁸

Statistics on Substance Use During Pregnancy

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, between 2011 and 2017, 1 in 10 pregnant women reported alcohol use and 1 in 33 reported binge drinking (defined as consuming 4 or more drinks on one occasion) in the past 30 days. According to the study, drinking prevalence was highest among pregnant women 35-44 years of age who were college educated and not married.⁹

Between 2011 and 2013, 1 in 10 pregnant women reported alcohol use and 1 in 33 reported binge drinking.

In addition, according to a national survey from 2012:²

• 9% of pregnant women used illegal drugs.
• 5% drank alcohol.
• 9% smoked cigarettes.

That amounts to over 380,000 infants exposed to illicit substances, over 550,000 exposed to alcohol, and over 1 million exposed to tobacco in the womb.²

Detox for Pregnant Women

If you’re pregnant and considering detoxing from drugs or alcohol, it’s important to seek support from your healthcare provider or other professionals who have experience in substance use treatment during pregnancy. This helps to ensure your safety as well as the health of your developing baby.

Detoxification during pregnancy requires careful planning and is best done under medical supervision. The specific approach will depend on various factors, including:

• The substance used: Different substances require different detox protocols.
• Severity of use: The level and duration of substance use will influence the detox process.
• Overall health: Your physical and mental health will be taken into consideration.

In some cases, inpatient care is recommended to provide a safe and supportive environment with 24/7 medical support. This is particularly important for those detoxing from alcohol or sedatives, as withdrawal symptoms can be severe and require close monitoring.^10,11

Medication-assisted treatment may be an option for some individuals, particularly those with opioid dependence. Medications such as methadone or buprenorphine can help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.¹² It’s important to work with a healthcare provider who can help you understand the benefits and other considerations of these medications.¹²

Remember that detoxification is just the first step in the recovery journey. Comprehensive treatment that addresses the underlying causes of substance use is essential for long-term success. This may include therapy, support groups, and other resources to help you build a healthy and fulfilling life free from substance use.

Benefits of Addiction Treatment During Pregnancy

Specialized rehabilitation centers for women near you offer a supportive and empowering environment for those navigating pregnancy and substance use. These programs provide comprehensive care tailored to the unique needs of expectant mothers, promoting positive outcomes for both parent and baby.

Key benefits of these programs include:¹⁶

• Improved prenatal health: Integrated medical care and addiction treatment help to minimize risks and support a healthy pregnancy.
• Reduced cravings and withdrawal symptoms: Evidence-based therapies and medication-assisted treatment options help manage cravings and withdrawal, promoting stability and well-being.
• Enhanced parenting skills: Education and support groups prepare expectant mothers for the challenges and joys of parenthood, fostering a strong parent-child bond.
• Stronger mental health: Addressing co-occurring mental health concerns like anxiety or depression contributes to overall well-being and long-term recovery.
• Increased self-esteem and confidence: Group therapy and individual counseling create a safe space for healing, self-discovery, and building a positive self-image.
• A foundation for lasting recovery: Developing coping skills, relapse prevention strategies, and a strong support network paves the way for a healthier future free from substance use.

Treatment can make a difference. One study found that addiction therapy for pregnant women led to increased fetal growth, which lowered the chance of negative neonatal outcomes.¹⁷  In addition, methadone treatment can lower the risk of relapse, boost adherence with prenatal care, and lead to better outcomes for the newborn.²

Treatment Considerations During Pregnancy

It’s understandable to have questions about substance use treatment during pregnancy. However, open communication with your doctor is key to understanding the potential risks and benefits and making informed decisions about your care. Here’s what to consider:

• Withdrawal: Stopping substance use can cause withdrawal symptoms, which can sometimes have risks for the pregnancy.¹⁸ Medical support helps manage these safely.
• Medications: Some medications used to treat opioid addiction can cause temporary withdrawal symptoms in newborns. However, these are generally mild and babies are healthier overall than if exposed to opioids throughout the pregnancy.¹⁸
• Individual Needs: Factors like the substance used, overall health, and pregnancy stage influence treatment choices.

Specialized Care for Pregnancy and Addiction

For women seeking help, there is often a fear of judgment. Many are afraid they will be arrested, forced to have an abortion, asked to leave a prenatal care program, and reported to child protective services.¹¹ However, these fears are largely unfounded. Confidential addiction treatment programs prioritize your health and well-being, free of judgment or punishment.

When looking for addiction treatment during pregnancy, treatment plans for women may include the following:

• Medical detox, if needed.
• A specialized treatment plan designed by professionals from various specialties.
• Pregnancy education and counseling.
• Parenting training.
• Individual, group, and family therapy.
• Assessment and therapy for co-occurring disorders.
• 12-step programming.
• Prenatal care.
• Life skills workshops.
• Aftercare planning.

Therapeutic approaches that have been shown to be effective in treating pregnant women with substance use disorders include:²

• Contingency management uses rewards, such as vouchers, to reinforce positive behaviors such as abstaining from drug use.
• Motivational interviewing helps pregnant women work through any hesitations they have about beginning rehab and adjusting their behaviors.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy helps women gain insight into the situations that lead them to use substances; break old patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving; and replace those habits with new ones.

Find Support for Your Pregnancy & Recovery

New life is a time for celebration as is each day of sobriety. Pregnant people can enjoy this fresh journey in life with newfound sobriety and continued recovery. Help is available. Comprehensive care, along with a nurturing and supportive environment, offer the baby and parent the best chances for full recovery.

If you’re struggling, reach out to us today at . Our compassionate and knowledgeable admissions navigators are on hand to go over your treatment options, offer support, and help you begin your journey to recovery.

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