Treatment options for pregnant women with opioid use disorder

Expecting a baby is a joyful time, but if you are struggling with opioid use disorder (OUD), that delight can be dimmed as life becomes more complex and concerning.

When a mother passes substances like opioids to her baby during pregnancy, it can cause serious health issues. The baby could be born too early, have a low birth weight, and face higher risks during birth.

You are not alone in your struggle.

As many as 11% of pregnant women have used drugs, tobacco products, or alcohol in the past month, according to a recent national survey by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Opioids are a big problem. Around 20% of pregnant women fill at least one opioid prescription, and about 14% of babies are exposed to opioids before birth, based on research from Science Direct.
Dealing with opioid use disorder during pregnancy can be tough. Support is available, and you deserve caring help throughout your journey.

Effective ways to treat opioid addiction include using medication along with therapy, support groups, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. This approach benefits both mothers and their babies, and it’s usually safe to breastfeed while on this treatment.

If you are a member of Arkansas Blue Cross, you can receive support services from peers who have personal experience with recovery. They are available to listen and provide compassionate care. You can call the number on the back of your insurance card or sign in to Blueprint Portal, blueprintportal.com, to access maternity programs and benefits available on your health plan.

Pregnant women with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) may be afraid of involving social services when seeking treatment. Regulations concerning custody and treatment can differ by state and hospital, so it’s important to understand the rules in your area for making informed decisions.

Tojuana Greenlaw, a Peer Recovery Administrator at Arkansas Blue Cross, has personal experience with pregnancy and OUD-related stigma. She provides help by connecting members to medical care and resources.

If you or someone you know is pregnant with OUD and wants to learn about treatment options, you can contact the Special Delivery Education Program at 1-800-225-1891 ext. 20225.

Bright Heart Health specializes in virtual MAT treatment. You can get a thorough evaluation in the comfort of your own home.

Maven, a digital family health platform, provides virtual support for those navigating pregnancy, postpartum and pregnancy loss.

To access maternity programs and benefits available on your health plan, call the number on the back of your insurance card or sign in to Blueprint Portal, blueprintportal.com.