Substance Use and Pregnancy

According to a 2017 report by Texas Health and Human Services, the most commonly used substances by Texas women include stimulants, hallucinogens, opioids and synthetics, and alcohol. While use and misuse are an area of clinical concern when seen in any patient, it is of particular concern when seen in in the context of pregnancy. Prevention is a key intervention; for patients already using, intervention can occur on many levels including residential and ambulatory detoxification, outpatient and residential treatment settings, and medication-assisted treatment including office-based opioid treatment. After treatment, many benefit from ongoing recovery support services which can include community-based recovery support groups. Pregnant patients and pregnant and injecting patients are a particular priority for intervention. Use the links below for additional resources and to identify resources for patients and families:

• https://dshs.texas.gov/mhsa-sa-help/
• https://dshs.texas.gov/sa/OSAR/

Credits: Leah Gonzalez, MSSW, Texas Women’s Healthcare Coalition Julie Steed, LPC, LCDC, HHSC Program Specialist