pregnancy and substance use
If you're pregnant and struggling with addiction, we are here to help.
Remember: Any of the feelings you have about your pregnancy are OK. It’s normal to have conflicting emotions. For example, you might be scared and excited at the same time.
Pregnant and parenting people who use substances face tremendous stigma and judgment when they seek medical care. Experience with bias, judgment, and scrutiny – especially from healthcare workers, loved ones, family, and friends – can isolate people and make it harder to seek prenatal care, mental health counseling, social services, and community support. People don’t like to go to places where they don’t feel welcomed. They may fear for their safety, or the safety of their children, or their pregnancy. That’s why having even one nonjudgmental and trustworthy person to support them can make all the difference in the world.
Please understand that while many people are able to quit or cut back on their use during pregnancy, those who want to stop but can’t stop need support. They may have a substance use disorder. Substance use is not the same as substance use disorder. When we talk about substance use disorder, we mean, “use that causes clinically significant impairment, including health problems, disability, and failure to meet our responsibilities at work, school, or home.” – www.samhsa.gov
Your privacy will always be protected. Our staff at Mahalo Wellness is here to listen, support, and guide you in a way that meets your needs, hopes, and goals. We can assist you with finding the best providers, OBGYN care, MAT providers (Medication Assisted Treatment), midwives, and many other pathways for your pregnancy needs.
