The Reality

Substance use during pregnancy is more common than most people realize. According to SAMHSA, approximately 5% of pregnant women use illicit substances. Many more use alcohol or misuse prescription medications. Shame and fear of legal consequences prevent many women from seeking the help they need.

Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS)

Babies born to mothers who used opioids during pregnancy may develop NAS — a group of withdrawal symptoms that appear shortly after birth. NAS is treatable and manageable with medical care. Symptoms include:

• Tremors, irritability, and excessive crying
• Feeding difficulties and poor weight gain
• Sleep disturbances
• In severe cases, seizures

Evidence-Based Treatment During Pregnancy

The standard of care for pregnant women with opioid use disorder is Medication-Assisted Treatment:

• Methadone: Long-standing evidence base for use during pregnancy. Managed through OTP clinics
• Buprenorphine (Subutex): Increasingly preferred due to lower risk of NAS and more flexible access
• NOT Vivitrol: Naltrexone is not recommended during pregnancy

MAT during pregnancy dramatically improves outcomes for both mother and baby compared to untreated addiction or abrupt cessation.

Finding Pregnancy-Specific Treatment

• Search Red Door Recovery Network for providers serving pregnant women
• Ask about prenatal care coordination, parenting support, and sober living options for mothers
• Food assistance programs can supplement nutrition during pregnancy and recovery