Substance use disorders during pregnancy pose substantial risks to both the expectant mother and the developing fetus, requiring a comprehensive and medically supervised treatment regimen for recovery. This complex medical scenario demands a multidisciplinary approach that includes obstetric care, addiction treatment, and psychosocial support. To increase the likelihood of a safe pregnancy and recovery, Clearbrook Treatment Centers offers rehabs for pregnant women in Massachusetts and Pennsylvania. Our residential treatment centers address the unique physiological and psychological aspects of this population while adhering to stringent safety standards to optimize maternal and neonatal outcomes.

What Is the Most Common Substance Used During Pregnancy?

Aside from tobacco, alcohol is among the most commonly used substances during pregnancy. Alcohol abuse during pregnancy can have detrimental effects on fetal development and is associated with a range of complications, collectively referred to as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD).

FASD encompasses a spectrum of physical, behavioral, and cognitive impairments that can impact children throughout their entire lives, so much so that adults with fetal alcohol syndrome will continue to exhibit signs. Given the risks, healthcare providers strongly advise pregnant women to abstain from alcohol entirely during pregnancy to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the developing fetus.

It is also worth noting that some pregnant women may misuse prescription medications, such as opioids and benzodiazepines, or engage in recreational drug use, both of which carry their own set of risks and should be closely monitored and managed by healthcare professionals.

What Substances Are Harmful During Pregnancy?

Several substances are harmful and can pose significant risks during pregnancy to both the expectant mother and the developing fetus, including:

  • Alcohol: Drinking alcohol while pregnant can lead to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), which encompass a range of physical, behavioral, and cognitive disabilities in the child that can persist for the rest of their lives.
  • Tobacco: Smoking tobacco or exposure to secondhand smoke can lead to complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues in children.
  • Illicit drugs: Using illicit drugs such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and marijuana during pregnancy can result in various adverse outcomes, including preterm birth, low birth weight, birth defects, and withdrawal symptoms in newborns.
  • Prescription medications: Some prescription medications, such as opioids, benzodiazepines, and certain antidepressants, may carry risks for the developing fetus. Pregnant women should always speak to their doctors about taking any prescription medications to ensure they’re necessary and safe.
  • Over-the-counter (OTC) medications: Certain OTC medications, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and some herbal supplements, can pose risks during pregnancy. The use of any medications and supplements should always be discussed with a doctor.
  • High doses of vitamin A: Excessive intake of vitamin A from supplements or certain foods can lead to birth defects, so pregnant women need to follow their doctor’s dietary guidelines.

Pregnant women must discuss their medical history, medication use, and lifestyle choices with their healthcare providers to receive guidance on minimizing exposure to harmful substances and promoting a healthy pregnancy. Additionally, no matter the circumstance, pregnant women should not engage in substance abuse of any kind.

What Is Perinatal Addiction Treatment?

One study found that during pregnancy, 9% of women used illegal drugs, 9% smoked cigarettes, and 5% drank alcohol.1 When a woman is pregnant, addiction is no longer just her problem. The health and well-being of the unborn child become a major concern.

Drinking and drug use during pregnancy can cause serious problems such as cognitive and behavioral problems, premature births, and even miscarriages. Not to mention the fact that you are about to become a mother and be responsible for a whole other life. Fortunately, there are rehabs for pregnant women that can help.

Perinatal addiction treatment, also known as maternal addiction treatment, is a highly specialized medical and therapeutic approach designed to address substance use disorders in pregnant women and new mothers during the perinatal period, including both pregnancy and the postpartum phase.

A perinatal substance abuse program recognizes the distinct physiological, psychological, and social factors at play during this critical period. Perinatal addiction treatment incorporates a multilevel approach that includes comprehensive assessments to determine the most suitable treatment plan, medication-assisted treatment when needed, and prenatal care to monitor the health of both the mother and the developing fetus.

Rehabs for pregnant women also offer evidence-based psychotherapy services to address the psychological aspects of addiction, as well as a range of supportive services to tackle social and environmental factors contributing to addiction. Additionally, specialized neonatal care may be needed for infants born to mothers with opioid dependence, with a focus on managing neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS).

Furthermore, guidance on safe breastfeeding practices may be part of the treatment plan. The overarching goal of rehabs for pregnant women is to prioritize the health and well-being of both the mother and the newborn, which requires close collaboration between addiction specialists, obstetricians, pediatricians, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible outcomes for this unique patient population. The treatment plan is highly individualized, accounting for the specific substance use disorder, its severity, and associated factors to provide optimal care.

Finding Rehabs for Pregnant Mothers Near Me

Our Northeast addiction centers for pregnant women in Pennsylvania and Massachusetts offer a comprehensive range of services necessary for helping expectant mothers and new mothers battling substance use disorders. Our perinatal addiction treatment services include:

  • Comprehensive assessment: This is a thorough evaluation of the individual’s medical history and substance use conducted upon admission to create a tailored treatment plan.
  • Prenatal care: Regular monitoring of maternal and fetal health by experienced obstetricians.
  • Medically monitored detox: A major aspect of our addiction treatment for pregnant women is medically assisted detox. Detoxing from drugs while pregnant can be highly dangerous if attempted at home or without professional support. For this reason, our facility offers detoxification services that are safe for both mother and baby.
  • Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): Safe and evidence-based medication options for opioid use disorder that are carefully monitored by medical staff.
  • Behavioral therapy: Individual and group therapy sessions, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and motivational enhancement therapy, are offered at our rehabs for pregnant women to support psychological and emotional recovery.
  • Supportive services: Social services and counseling to address social and environmental factors contributing to addiction.
  • Neonatal care: Specialized care for infants born to mothers with substance use disorders, with a focus on treating neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS).
  • Postpartum support: Continued care and counseling during the postpartum period to support recovery maintenance.
  • Parenting education: Guidance on safe and nurturing parenting practices.
  • Breastfeeding support: Counseling and guidance on safe breastfeeding practices when safe.
  • 24/7 medical staff: A dedicated team of healthcare professionals ensuring around-the-clock support and care.
  • Holistic approach: Comprehensive care addressing physical, emotional, and social aspects of addiction and recovery.

Our Clearbrook rehabs in Massachusetts and Pennsylvania are committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment for pregnant women on their journey to recovery, with a focus on optimizing both maternal and neonatal health. If you or someone you know is pregnant and struggling with addiction, contact Clearbrook Treatment Centers today to learn more about our perinatal rehabs.