Addiction Treatment During Pregnancy

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs): Alcohol use during pregnancy can result in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs), a range of developmental conditions that cause permanent physical, behavioral, and cognitive impairments. Children with FASDs may experience facial abnormalities, growth deficiencies, learning disabilities, and behavioral challenges that persist throughout life.

Neurological and Cognitive Impairments: Exposure to substances like alcohol, opioids and other illicit drugs during pregnancy can have lasting effects on a child’s developing brain and nervous system. This can lead to challenges with coordination, memory, attention, and impulse control, potentially hindering their ability to learn and thrive socially.

Preterm Birth and Low Birth Weight: Substance use during pregnancy poses serious risks to the developing baby, including a heightened chance of premature birth and low birth weight. These conditions can lead to a cascade of health problems, such as breathing difficulties, developmental delays, and other serious medical concerns that may require intensive care and long-term support.

Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS): Babies exposed to opioids in the womb are at risk for Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS), a condition where newborns experience withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, irritability, poor feeding, and respiratory difficulties. These symptoms can require extensive medical care and hospitalization.

Maternal Health Complications: Pregnant women who use substances face increased health risks, including higher chances of infections, labor complications, and exacerbation of mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Substance use also complicates the management of pregnancy and can jeopardize the health of both mother and baby.

Risk of Miscarriage and Stillbirth: Women who use substances during pregnancy are at higher risk of experiencing miscarriage and stillbirth. Substance use can also cause complications such as placental abruption and intrauterine growth restriction, which further endanger the pregnancy.

Impact on Long-Term Development and Social Functioning: Prenatal substance exposure can have lasting consequences for a child’s development. These challenges may impact their ability to form healthy social relationships, succeed academically, and adapt to new environments, ultimately affecting their overall well-being and ability to thrive.

Individual and Group Therapy: Therapy provides a safe and supportive space for women to explore the underlying causes of their addiction, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and build a strong foundation for lasting recovery.

Family Therapy: We encourage family involvement in the treatment process to strengthen relationships, build a supportive home environment, and foster healthy family dynamics.

Nutritional Counseling: Proper nutrition is vital for both maternal and fetal health. Our registered dietitians provide personalized guidance on healthy eating habits during pregnancy.

Integrated Prenatal Care: We collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure women receive comprehensive prenatal care, including regular checkups, screenings, and education.

Parenting Classes: Preparing for parenthood can be overwhelming. Our parenting classes offer education and support on childcare, infant development, and building a nurturing parent-child bond.

Comprehensive Aftercare Planning: We help women develop personalized aftercare plans to support their continued recovery after delivery, including ongoing therapy, support groups, and sober living arrangements.