Pregnancy is a highly emotional time in one’s life.
For individuals that have previously struggled with substance abuse and/ or addiction leaning on drugs and/ or alcohol may seem like a viable coping mechanism, but it can lead to severe consequences. Along with the typical strains and stressors that can accompany pregnancy, individuals that simultaneously struggle with addiction while pregnant are exposed to a myriad of additional potential psychological, physical, and emotional challenges, dangers, and risks. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) warns that substance abuse while pregnant may result in miscarriage, stillbirth, infant withdrawal syndrome, birth defects, premature birth, low birth weights, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Upon discovering a pregnancy, some may be tempted to immediately stop all drug use, but this can be especially distressing to the fetus and to the mother. There are specialized detox options for individuals struggling with addiction while pregnant.
Inpatient Detox Programs
During detox, one’s body eliminates the drugs and alcohol that it is physically dependent on. For pregnant women, detox is a particularly critical period, as the baby will be detoxing simultaneously. Undergoing detox in an inpatient, supervised setting is generally recommended as these facilities can offer the optimal level of care for pregnant women. Inpatient detox programs can include medically supported detox (medical detox programs, medically supervised detox programs, etc.) as well as inpatient nonmedical detox programs that provide twenty-four-hour support and supervision during the entire detox process.
Non-medical inpatient programs can be effective and safe for non-pregnant women with mild addictions but are rarely recommended for a pregnant woman. Pregnant women require around-the-clock medical treatment to prevent and address any complications that may arise. Hence, a pregnant woman looking to detox is advised to enroll in a 24-hour supervised program located in a medical facility, such as a hospital or inpatient program. Many detox programs that cater to pregnant women offer services such as obstetric and pediatric care, pharmacological tools, parenting education and vocational training, therapy and counseling, transitional services, and more. An inpatient detox program can provide targeted guidance to effectively help a pregnant woman discontinue drug use safely and manage any potential withdrawal symptoms.
For Information and Support
Contemplating detox can be a very challenging time. Before any individual can begin to work on the underlying issues contributing to their substance abuse problem, they must be separated from the substances in their systems. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to leading happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. Sherwood Detox offers a stand-alone detox program. For additional information on detox, please do not hesitate to contact us at: 818-626-9959 or feel free to email us anytime. One of our trusted counselors is available to talk and discuss how we can best support you on your journey.
