Bonus Content: Perinatal Substance Use Disorder Q&A

Bonus Content: Perinatal Substance Use Disorder Q&A

Pregnancy is a time filled with questions, especially for women dealing with substance use. This episode of the Addiction Medicine Podcast brings together Judith Johnson-Hostler, a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, and Melissa Godwin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, to tackle some of the most common concerns. They provide straightforward answers and practical advice that can help both patients and healthcare providers navigate this challenging landscape. One pressing question is whether it’s safe to drink alcohol during pregnancy.

The experts make it clear: no amount of alcohol is safe. They emphasize the importance of seeking help if you have a substance use disorder, reassuring listeners that withdrawal in infants is treatable and doesn’t lead to long-term effects. Another frequent concern is what happens if you're in recovery with medication for opioid use disorder when you go into labor.

Johnson-Hostler and Godwin explain that hospitals are equipped to manage your medication needs and will monitor your baby for any withdrawal symptoms. They stress that seeking help during pregnancy is the best course of action for both mother and child. The episode also addresses a common misconception: infants cannot be addicted. While newborns can experience withdrawal, labeling them as addicted is misleading and harmful.

The discussion includes the effects of smoking during pregnancy, highlighting that even if you've quit harder substances, smoking can still impact your baby's health. Listeners will find valuable resources and tips, such as connecting with local health departments for support. This episode is a must-listen for anyone dealing with perinatal substance use disorder, offering empathy, expert advice, and practical solutions.

Tune in to gain insights that could make a difference in your pregnancy journey or help you support someone else through theirs.