Navigating substance use during pregnancy can feel overwhelming. It is important to know that there are many things you can do, some related to substance use and some not, to have a healthy pregnancy.
1. Take your vitamins. Prenatal vitamins provide the extra minerals and nutrients you need to protect your health and ensure your baby’s healthy development.
2. Get good prenatal care. This is the most important thing you can do. Getting care early and often reduces your risk for most complications.
3. Make supportive choices. Consider ways to gently incorporate healthier habits into your daily routine. Small changes like getting a bit more sleep, eating nutritious food, and staying hydrated can contribute to your overall well-being and help with healthy choices.
4. Record how much you use. Keep a log of how much and how often you use substances. This can provide you insight into your habits and triggers, as well as naturally reduce your use, even if that was not your initial goal.
5. Evaluate risks and benefits. Take some time to reflect on the advantages and disadvantages of using substances. Consider who you’re with and where you’re at when you use substances, as these can influence your decisions.
6. Prepare a safety plan. Develop a plan to ensure your safety before using substances. This could include arranging for safe transportation to avoid driving under the influence.
7. Set personal limits on use. Set guidelines for what, when, and how much you use. For example, don’t combine substances, or use alone.
8. Join support groups. Seek out support groups like Moderation Management, SMART Recovery, Narcotics Anonymous, or Alcoholics Anonymous. Struggling with substance use while pregnant can be tough, but taking these steps can help you make positive changes for yourself and your baby.
Connection and Support
While many people are able to cut back on their use during pregnancy, those who want to stop but can’t stop, need support. If you’re looking for more information, check out our blog Finding Connection and Support While Pregnant and Using Substances.
Resources
National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
Call or text 1-833-852-6262
24/7, free, confidential hotline for pregnant and new moms.
English and Spanish. Interpreter services are available in 60 languages
The Substance Use and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
24/7, free, confidential hotline for substance use help.
Postpartum Support International
Call or text “Help” to the PSI Helpline at 1-800-944-4773
The free and confidential hotline is open between 8am – 11pm EST. You can leave a message at any time outside of those hours.
For online support groups, resources, and more visit postpartum.net