Pregnancy and Addiction: Get Sober at a Women’s Rehab

by | Jan 27, 2024

The development of a newborn is not easy but women across the globe undergo this sacred process with sheer excitement and heart full of love. It is without a doubt a critical time for both mother and developing baby. For some women, it is even harder because of their battle against addiction and drug misuse. Pregnancy and addiction are the most deadly duo, especially if mental illness is present. According to a study conducted in September 2022, substance abuse and mental health issues were responsible for 23% of pregnancy-related fatalities. This article delves into various aspects of drug misuse during pregnancy and role of women’s rehab in fostering recovery and how it is beneficial for both: mother and unborn baby. 

Addiction is harmful for every individual but it is highly risky for pregnant women and their unborn child. The fight against addiction is very challenging but one can overshadow and find peace with acknowledgement and seeking help. Call (714) 400-2048 and Get help at Broadway Treatment Center. 

Understanding The Complications Of Addiction During Pregnancy

Before moving forward it is essential to acknowledge the risks factors associated with addiction during pregnancy for both expectant women and developing fetuses. In addition to this, it can cause tons of complications and developmental issues. 

  • Impaired Fetal Development

Low birth weight, premature birth, impaired development of the fetus, and birth defects are one of the most common causes of drug addiction. Not just this, Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) and delayed development are two most common complications that are linked with excessive use of drugs leading to cognitive behavioral impairment and disabilities. This is the reason why it is highly essential for expecting mothers to seek help and acknowledge the risk factors. 

  • Compromised Mother’s Health

Not just the unborn baby, but substance misuse is highly critical for expecting mothers as well. During the period of 9 months, the body undergoes various changes and responds differently at different times. During this time span, women experience increased risk of complications such as placental problems, hypertension, excessive mood swings, and melancholy and a wide range of infections. Furthermore, if the mothers have compromised mental health, addiction can exacerbate the overall condition and worsen them. Panic attacks, anxiety, and depression are most common due to substance abuse and can leave an everlasting effect. 

Looking for an addiction treatment center for women? Call now at [Direct] and speak with our representatives at Broadway Treatment Center directly.

Common Types of Addictions in Pregnancy: Effects and Types of Substance Use Disorders

  • Alcohol Addiction

Being addicted to alcohol is a grave concern during childbirth and even otherwise. Alcohol misuse is most common among expecting mothers causing a wide range of complications such as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASDs). It may include a number of impairments like neurological and cognitive issues, physical deformities, and weakened immune system. Sadly, these complications are life-long and no treatment is available. However, it can be prevented with complete abstinence of alcohol.

  • Prescription Medication Misuse

The second most common addiction among women during pregnancy is misuse of prescription medicines, and specifically opioids. It is said that opioids are not your best friend when it comes to pregnancy and addiction. They worsen complications and leave a lifelong effect. Benzodiazepine is also one of those drugs that cause serious health issues and exacerbate conditions. NAS, deformities, low birth weight is the most common cause of misuse of prescription medication.

  • Illicit Drug Use

Lastly, misuse of illicit drugs which includes cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine, causing severe health risks. Illicit drugs pass through umbilical cord and affect the fetus leading to a number of illnesses like miscarriage, deformities, and delayed fetal development. Furthermore, illicit drugs leave a lifelong effect and irreversible complications. It also increases the chance of transmission of HIV and hepatitis. 

Why Women’s Rehab is Essential in Addiction Recovery?

As substances pass from mother to baby, their development changes due to chemical changes, resulting in withdrawal experiences for the baby born, including:

  • Poor feeding
  • Hyperactive reflexes
  • Seizures and tremors
  • Fever
  • Slow weight gain and development.

It is common for a woman to experience the symptoms of overdose or withdrawal during pregnancy, such as:

  • Social anxiety
  • Physical changes.
  • Sudden mood swings.
  • Headache
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Cravings and improved tolerance

This is where a Women’s Rehab comes in. Seeking addiction treatment for women should not be made a stigma. If you or someone you know is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, get in touch with Broadway Treatment Center. 

Women rehabs are no less than a blessing for the mothers battling against addiction. They play a vital role in betterment and recovery journey by providing the customized treatment planned aka tailored treatment for pregnant women. Here is why a Women’s Rehab may help: 

  • Specialized Treatment Plans for Pregnant Women

In women’s rehab, the addiction treatment plans are made after considering all essential factors like emotional support and physiological consideration and are tailored after proper research and one to one care. In women’s rehab, there is a sense of support and safety that mothers feel when they enroll.  Programs like these prioritize the health of pregnant mothers as well as developing fetuses. The tailored program usually includes:

  • Many Perks of Gender-Specific Rehab

Gender-specific rehab or women’s rehab have numerous benefits especially for expecting mothers during their vulnerable period. Women’s rehab is specifically designed for mothers to educate them about: 

  • body changes, 
  • hormonal changes, 
  • societal pressure, 
  • postpartum depression, 
  • anxiety.

It is a complete guide for women who want to learn everything from scratch within a supportive environment. The main idea of gender-specific rehab is to provide the sense of mutual support and understanding among mothers. It also enables women to talk about sensitive issues, traumas, and challenges throughout their pregnancy. This holistic approach not only aids in overcoming addiction but also empowers women to build a better future for themselves and their children.

  • Handling Prenatal and Postpartum Mental Illness

During pregnancy, a woman may use substances to treat mental health disorders like:

  • Anxiety 
  • Depression
  • Insomnia 
  • Stress 

Postpartum depression is more likely to accompany substance use disorder due to psychological, behavioral, physical, and hormonal changes caused by 

  • Domestic violence or 
  • A strained relationship.
  • Lack of social support.
  • History of mental health problems.

All of these factors, combined with addiction disorder, exacerbate the condition of both the baby and the mother. To alleviate both, a Women’s Rehab may offer Dual Diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment program for substance use disorders and mental health issues. 

Get Sober at  a Women’s Rehab!

Do you wish to start a new life, then let healthcare providers at a Women’s Rehab help you. There are different levels of care offered at a women’s rehabilitation center: 

  • Detoxification and Medical Supervision

The first step towards recovery is detoxification. In women’s addiction rehab, the process of detoxification is carried out under strict supervision by health care professionals to observe  the withdrawal symptoms and relapse.

  • Counseling and Behavioral Therapies

When behavioral therapies (CBT, DBT) are incorporated into an addiction treatment program for women, results will be massive! At a women’s treatment center, professionals understand the importance of counseling and emotional support. Throughout the recovery process they provide counseling at each step along with behavioral therapies which address physiological aspects of drug misuse. It also talks about the challenges and how to overcome them for the betterment of the child and mother in the future.

  • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medication-Assisted Treatment MAT is the perfect blend of behavioral therapies and medications to win battles against opioids addiction. Healthcare providers may prescribe the following FDA-approved medications to assist recovery:

  • Suboxone 
  • Subutex
  • Naltrexone
  • Buprenorphine

  • Dual Diagnosis

Dual Diagnosis is another largely used treatment protocol which is beneficial for people who have challenged mental health as a result of drug misuse. It ensures rapid recovery and leaves a lasting effect. It is essential to focus on how unhealed parts may contribute to developing an addiction. 

Call Now (714) 400-2048 for same-day consultations from our DEA-certified practitioners at Broadway Treatment Center ! 

That’s A Wrap On How to Get Sober at  a Women’s Rehab!

A drug rehab for women is the best place to come for help and achieve positive outcomes. It is imperative for mothers-to-be who are struggling with drug misuse and challenges to seek professional help. If you are someone who is going through similar struggles it’s time to take a brave step forward and seek therapy. Good luck!