Treatment can support you and your baby.
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If you are pregnant and using substances, treatment and support can help improve health for both you and your baby.
It’s Never Too Late to Get Help
Many women worry that it is “too late” to get help once they are pregnant. But it is never too late to reach out for care. Getting support at any point during pregnancy can make a difference.
Treatment during pregnancy can help:
Reduce health risks for you and your baby
Improve prenatal care and support
Lower the risk of overdose or serious health problems
Help you prepare for birth and caring for your baby
Recovery does not look the same for everyone. Some people enter formal treatment programs. Others start by talking with a healthcare provider or connecting with community support.
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Treatment during pregnancy can include different types of care depending on your needs.
Medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD)
For people who use opioids, medications such as methadone or buprenorphine are often recommended during pregnancy. These medications help prevent withdrawal, reduce cravings, and lower the risk of overdose. Many women continue these medications safely during pregnancy.Counseling and behavioral therapy
Talking with a counselor or therapist can help address stress, trauma, depression, or anxiety. Counseling can also help people build coping skills and support recovery.Mental health treatment
Some pregnant women benefit from medication or therapy for depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions. Treating mental health concerns can support both recovery and a healthier pregnancy.Peer support
Peer support programs connect you with people who have experienced recovery themselves. Talking with someone who understands your experience can reduce isolation and help build confidence.
Case management and social services
Some programs help connect pregnant women with housing support, food assistance, transportation, childcare, and other services that support stability during pregnancy. -
Some treatment programs are designed specifically for pregnant or parenting women. These programs may offer:
Prenatal care
Substance use treatment
Mental health services
Parenting education
Family support services
Some programs also allow mothers to stay with their babies during treatment. Programs like these can provide a supportive environment for both recovery and parenting.
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Many women worry about what will happen when their baby is born, especially if they have used substances during pregnancy or are receiving treatment.
After birth, healthcare providers will check both you and your baby to make sure you are healthy. If your baby may have been exposed to certain substances during pregnancy, the medical team may watch for signs that the baby needs extra care.
Some babies may have symptoms of withdrawal. This is called Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) or Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS).
Hospitals know how to care for babies with these symptoms. Many babies do well with simple supportive care, such as:
Being held and comforted
Skin-to-skin contact with a parent
Quiet and low-light environments
Feeding support
Recovery takes time
Recovery is a process. It may include challenges, setbacks, and learning along the way. Many people move forward in recovery step by step.
Pregnancy can be a time when people begin thinking about new goals, stability, and health. Support during this time can help build a strong foundation for both you and your baby.
You Are Not Alone.
Many pregnant women are working toward recovery. Support from healthcare providers, counselors, peer workers, and community programs can help you navigate this journey.
You deserve care, respect, and support throughout pregnancy and after your baby is born.