Substance Use After Pregnancy: What It Means for Mothers, Babies, and Families
The period after childbirth – often called the “postnatal” or “postpartum” period – is a time of major change. For many mothers, it includes physical recovery, emotional adjustment, and learning how to care for a newborn. For women affected by substance use, this time can be even more challenging.
Postnatal substance use doesn’t often get the attention it deserves. Research shows that though many women are able to achieve abstinence during pregnancy, the relapse rate within the first two years after birth is high. Understanding the issues contributing to relapse and the co-occurrence of mental health and substance use disorders in pregnant and parenting women can help us understand how best to provide support and services to those who are struggling.
Why Postnatal Substance Use Deserves Attention
Substance use during and after pregnancy has increased in recent years, including use of opioids, alcohol, and methamphetamine. In California, statewide data show that a measurable percentage of women report substance use during pregnancy, with variation across counties and communities.
The postpartum period is especially high-risk. Research shows that the year after birth is one of the most vulnerable times for overdose, particularly for women with opioid use disorder (OUD). This is often the result of changes in care, stress, and loss of support after delivery, as well as co-occurring mental health challenges. According to the latest California Department of Public Health’s Maternal and Infant Health Assessment, in Sacramento County, 14% of mothers had experienced postpartum depression symptoms, and 19% experienced symptoms of postpartum anxiety. Unfortunately, individuals often turn to substances to help cope with mental health struggles.
Effects on Mothers
For mothers, postnatal substance use can affect both physical and mental health.
Substance use is linked to:
Increased risk of postpartum depression and anxiety
Higher risk of overdose, especially in the first year after birth
Challenges with breastfeeding and recovery
In Sacramento County, community health assessments identify mental health challenges, substance use, and economic stress as overlapping issues that affect maternal health. These factors can make recovery more difficult without strong support systems.
The most common barriers to getting care for mental health or substance use, as reported by pregnant and parenting mothers, are feeling like they could handle their mental health concerns on their own, being too busy, and not knowing where to go for care. Many also report feeling fear of judgment or legal consequences. This avoidance of or delay in treatment increases the risk for both the mother and the child.
Effects on Children and Families
The effects of substance use do not stop in infancy. Children living in homes affected by substance use may be at higher risk for:
Delays in learning and development
Behavioral and emotional difficulties
Exposure to unsafe environments
Increased stress or trauma
Children’s well-being is closely tied to family stability, mental health, and access to services. When parents receive support, children are more likely to do well. At the same time, separating families can also have long-term negative effects. That’s why many programs, like Bridges Women and Children’s Sober Living, now focus on keeping families together while providing treatment and support.
What This Looks Like in Sacramento County
Sacramento County has made addressing prenatal and postnatal substance use a priority. Local efforts include:
Tracking opioid overdoses and substance use trends
Expanding treatment and recovery services, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
Supporting pregnant and postpartum women through specialized programs and community partnerships
Providing education and prevention through various initiatives and campaigns
Programs like SACCounty Healthy Beginnings focus on education, screening, and early intervention for families affected by substance use. Their goal is to reduce prenatal substance exposure and improve outcomes for both mothers and children.
So, How Do We Move Forward?
Postnatal substance use is not just an individual issue; it is a community issue. In Sacramento County, data continue to show the impact of substance use on health, families, and emergency services.
Communities and providers can help by:
Using non-judgmental language
Offering confidential and supportive care
Connecting families to local resources
Supporting recovery as a long-term process
Addressing both mental health AND substance use
Developing strong community partnerships
The postpartum period is a critical window of opportunity. With the right support, mothers can recover, babies can thrive, and families can stay together. Pregnant and parenting mothers need to know that they are not alone in their struggles and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
If you or someone you know needs help, Sacramento County offers compassionate support and services.