Pregnancy should be a time of joy and anticipation, but if you’re struggling with substance use, it can feel isolating and overwhelming. The fear of judgment and the weight of your own expectations can make it seem impossible to reach out for help. Please know this: you are not alone, and you’ve already taken a brave first step just by being here. At Red Ribbon Recovery Colorado, we understand the unique challenges you’re facing. Our compassionate rehab for pregnant mothers is designed to be a safe, supportive space where you can heal and prepare for the beautiful journey of parenthood without shame or judgment. We’re here to walk alongside you, offering the specialized care you and your baby deserve.
Are there options for rehab for pregnant mothers?
Pregnancy does not disqualify someone from getting addiction treatment. In many cases, it actually opens the door to more specialized care. Rehab programs for pregnant mothers understand that treatment during pregnancy looks different. Care is focused on safety, medical supervision, and emotional support rather than punishment or shame.
Many programs offer prenatal-informed addiction care, which means treatment plans are created with pregnancy in mind from the very beginning. This often includes coordinated medical care, therapy that addresses trauma and stress, and substance use treatment that protects fetal health. For mothers dealing with opioid or alcohol dependence, medical providers can guide safer stabilization methods rather than abrupt withdrawal, which can be dangerous during pregnancy.
Substance use during pregnancy
If you’re facing a substance use disorder while pregnant, it’s easy to feel like you’re the only one. The reality is that many expecting mothers share this struggle. Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that about 1 in 7 pregnant women reports using alcohol recently. Furthermore, around 5% of pregnant women use one or more addictive substances, which often include prescription opioids. Many women also find themselves using more than one substance, complicating an already difficult situation.
These numbers aren’t meant to cause alarm but to reassure you that you are far from alone. The pressure to be perfect during pregnancy is immense, and dealing with co-occurring disorders like anxiety or depression alongside substance abuse is a heavy burden. Recognizing the scope of this issue is the first step toward understanding that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Specialized addiction treatment programs are here to provide the understanding and support you need.
Dangers of substance use while pregnant
Thinking about the risks of substance use during pregnancy can be frightening, but understanding them is a powerful step toward protecting your baby and yourself. This isn’t about fear; it’s about empowerment. When you know what the dangers of substance use are, you can make informed choices to create a healthier future. For mothers, substance use can increase the risk of serious health issues, strain mental health, and lead to complications like placental abruption.
For the baby, the risks are also significant and can include miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight, and other birth defects. The good news is that entering a treatment program dramatically reduces these risks. With the right support, you can navigate your recovery journey safely and give your child the healthy start they deserve. Many women who use substances during pregnancy also face polysubstance use challenges, which can complicate these risks further.
Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS)
Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is one of the most well-known risks associated with drinking during pregnancy. It is part of a wider range of conditions called fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs), which are caused by alcohol exposure in the womb. Children with FAS may face lifelong physical, behavioral, and learning challenges. These can include distinct facial features, growth problems, and issues with the central nervous system.
It’s important to remember that there is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy. The most empowering fact about fetal alcohol syndrome is that it is 100% preventable. With supportive addiction treatment and complete abstinence from alcohol, you can eliminate this risk and protect your baby from these developmental disabilities.
Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS)
Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is a condition that can occur when a baby is exposed to substances, most commonly opioids, in the womb and then goes through withdrawal after birth. This can be heartbreaking for new parents to watch, as newborns with NAS may experience symptoms like tremors, irritability, high-pitched crying, and difficulty feeding or sleeping.
While this sounds scary, medically supervised treatment during pregnancy can significantly manage and reduce the severity of these outcomes. Doctors can create a plan to ensure the baby is as safe and comfortable as possible, often minimizing the need for extensive medical intervention after birth. The rise in addiction involving addictive prescription drugs has made understanding and managing NAS a critical part of prenatal care for many.
Benefits of addiction treatment during pregnancy
Choosing to seek addiction treatment during pregnancy is one of the most powerful and loving decisions you can make for both yourself and your baby. It’s a courageous act that lays the foundation for a healthier, brighter future. Far from being a source of shame, starting your recovery journey now is a proactive step that opens the door to countless benefits. It’s about more than just stopping substance use; it’s about healing, growing, and preparing for motherhood with confidence and support.
Here are some of the incredible benefits of getting help:
- A healthier baby. The most immediate benefit is reducing the health risks for your child. Treatment significantly lowers the chances of premature birth, low birth weight, and conditions like FAS and NAS.
- Improved maternal health. Your well-being is just as important. Addiction treatment provides you with medical supervision, nutritional guidance, and mental health support to ensure you stay healthy throughout your pregnancy.
- Dedicated prenatal care. Reputable programs work closely with your OB-GYN to integrate your recovery with your prenatal appointments, ensuring both you and your baby receive comprehensive care.
- Building essential coping skills. Therapy and counseling equip you with the tools to manage stress, handle triggers, and navigate the emotional challenges of pregnancy and new parenthood without turning to substances.
- A strong support network. Recovery introduces you to a community of peers and professionals who understand your journey. This network becomes an invaluable source of strength and encouragement long after your baby is born.
Addiction treatment for pregnant mothers
When you’re expecting, the idea of entering addiction treatment can feel daunting, but modern programs are designed to be as flexible and supportive as possible. The right treatment plan fits your unique needs, and there are several different levels of care available. The goal is to find a path that allows you to focus on your recovery without adding unnecessary stress to your life. For many pregnant women, outpatient rehab, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), and telehealth services are highly effective options. These formats allow you to live at home, continue working if you choose, and attend prenatal appointments while receiving the structured support you need.
Some situations may require more intensive support, and in these cases, inpatient care provides a safe, substance-free environment to focus entirely on healing. No matter which option is right for you, every program should offer integrated care that addresses both substance use and any co-occurring mental health conditions. Your recovery journey is personal, and the right treatment will honor that. If you’re unsure where to start, our team can help. Call us for a free, confidential assessment to explore the best treatment options for you and your baby.
Inpatient and outpatient drug rehab during pregnancy
Understanding the difference between inpatient and outpatient drug rehab can help you decide what’s best for you. Inpatient rehab involves living at a treatment facility, which provides 24/7 medical and emotional support. Outpatient rehab, on the other hand, allows you to live at home while attending scheduled therapy sessions and appointments at a clinic.
For many pregnant mothers, outpatient programs offer the ideal balance of structure and flexibility. They allow you to maintain your connection with your family and support system, manage personal responsibilities, and never miss an important prenatal visit. With options for care available across Colorado and nationwide through telehealth, quality treatment can fit into your life, not disrupt it.
Dual diagnosis care
It’s incredibly common for substance use to go hand-in-hand with mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. According to a recent global analysis, approximately 27% of pregnant women experience depressive symptoms and 37% experience anxiety symptoms. When you have both a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder, it’s called a dual diagnosis. The most effective treatment addresses both conditions at the same time through an integrated approach. Dual diagnosis care ensures that you’re not just treating the symptoms of addiction but also healing the underlying emotional pain that may contribute to it. This approach is key to achieving a successful, sustainable recovery and building a strong foundation for your family’s well-being.
Behavioral therapy and counseling
Behavioral therapy and counseling are the cornerstones of addiction treatment. They provide a safe space to explore the root causes of substance use and develop healthier ways of thinking and behaving. Evidence-based approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) help you identify and change negative thought patterns, while motivational interviewing (MI) empowers you to find your own motivation for change.
In these sessions, you’ll build practical coping skills to manage cravings, reduce stress, and navigate difficult emotions. For pregnant mothers, psychotherapy is especially valuable as it helps you address past trauma and prepare emotionally for the joys and challenges of parenthood, ensuring you feel ready and resilient.
Does insurance cover addiction rehab during pregnancy?
One of the biggest worries for expecting mothers seeking help is the cost. The good news is that, yes, most insurance plans do cover addiction rehab. Thanks to federal laws like the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act and the Affordable Care Act (ACA), health insurers are required to provide coverage for mental health and substance use disorder treatment just as they would for any other medical condition. The specific amount of coverage can vary depending on your plan and the level of care you need, but you should have access to support.
We believe that financial concerns should never be a barrier to getting life-saving care for you and your baby. Our team can help you navigate your benefits and understand what your plan covers. You can verify your insurance with us confidentially online or by phone. In addition to private insurance, other payment options like Medicaid are often available to provide the coverage you need. We’re here to help you figure it all out.
Finding addiction rehabs for pregnant women
Finding the right rehab program when you’re pregnant is about more than just convenience; it’s about finding a place where you feel safe, understood, and supported. Not all rehab centers are equipped to handle the unique needs of pregnancy, so it’s important to look for specialized care. A high-quality program will offer integrated prenatal care, ensuring your addiction treatment works in harmony with your OB-GYN’s recommendations. They should also provide dual diagnosis services to address any co-occurring mental health conditions and employ a compassionate, non-judgmental approach in all that they do.
Here are a few steps to guide your search:
- Acknowledge the need for help. The first and most important step is recognizing that you deserve support on this journey.
- Reach out for a confidential assessment. Contact a treatment provider to discuss your needs. This initial call is completely confidential and without obligation. Our admissions process is designed to be as simple and stress-free as possible.
- Ask the right questions. Inquire about their experience with pregnant clients, their medical supervision protocols, and the therapies they offer.
- Begin your recovery journey. Once you’ve found the right fit, you can start your path to a healthier future for you and your baby.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you absolutely can, and it’s one of the most loving choices you can make for yourself and your baby. Specialized addiction treatment programs are designed to provide safe, effective care for pregnant women, ensuring the health of both mother and child is the top priority.
These programs often integrate with your regular prenatal care to create a seamless support system. With flexible options like outpatient rehab and telehealth, getting help can fit into your life without causing major disruption, allowing you to focus on your recovery and a healthy pregnancy.
Yes, substances like alcohol and other drugs can pass from the mother to the fetus through the placenta. This exposure can increase the risk for serious health issues, including premature birth, low birth weight, birth defects, and developmental challenges.
In some cases, babies may experience withdrawal symptoms after birth, a condition known as Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). The best way to protect your baby from these risks is to seek professional addiction treatment, which provides the medical care and support needed for a healthier outcome.
Inpatient rehab offers a completely safe and structured environment, which is especially beneficial for pregnant women who need a higher level of care. It provides 24/7 medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms safely and address any health concerns for both mother and fetus immediately.
This setting removes you from potential triggers and daily stressors, allowing you to focus entirely on your health and recovery. It offers intensive therapy and a strong peer support network, building a solid foundation for a new life.
Yes, psychotherapy and counseling are essential parts of any effective rehab program for pregnant women. This type of therapy provides a confidential space to explore the root causes of addiction, such as past trauma, depression, or anxiety, which are common during pregnancy.
Working with a therapist helps you develop healthy coping skills to manage stress and cravings. It also prepares you for the emotional journey of motherhood, empowering you to build a stable, nurturing life for your new family.
Whether children can accompany their mother to rehab depends on the specific facility. Some specialized treatment centers for women are equipped to accommodate children, recognizing that childcare is a significant barrier to treatment for many mothers.
However, many programs do not offer this option. If staying with your children is necessary, outpatient or telehealth programs are often ideal solutions. They provide structured, effective care while allowing you to remain at home and maintain your role as a parent.
Embracing a healthier future for you and your baby with rehab for pregnant mothers
Recovery is possible, and the choice to begin this journey is a profound act of love for yourself and your child. The journey to recovery is a brave and hopeful path, especially when you’re preparing to welcome a new life. Remember that seeking help is a sign of immense strength and love. With flexible outpatient and telehealth options, compassionate care is more accessible than ever, allowing you to build a strong foundation for yourself and your baby. If you’re ready to take the next step, our team at Red Ribbon Recovery Colorado is here to help. Call us at (303) 219-3980 for a confidential conversation about your needs, or contact us online to learn more. A healthier, brighter future is waiting for you.
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (May 8, 2025). Data and Statistics on Alcohol and Pregnancy – CDC. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (August 12, 2025). Alcohol and Pregnancy in the United States. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (May 8, 2025). What CDC Is Doing | Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (February 25, 2025). Alcohol and Pregnancy – CDC. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (May 16, 2024). About Alcohol Use During Pregnancy – CDC. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (May 8, 2025). Polysubstance Use During Pregnancy – CDC. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (January 17, 2017). Women of Childbearing Age and Opioids – SAMHSA. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (January 1, 2024). Substance use and treatment characteristics among pregnant and …. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (May 16, 2014). Trends in Substances of Abuse among Pregnant Women … – SAMHSA. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (May 15, 2024). Substance Use During Pregnancy | Maternal Infant Health – CDC. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. (June 2025). Recent Trends in Maternal Mental Health. Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
- National Center for Biotechnology Information. (January 9, 2025). Global prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms in …. PubMed.
- National Center for Biotechnology Information. (January 22, 2025). Perinatal Depression – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf. National Center for Biotechnology Information.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (June 5, 2025). Data and Statistics on Children’s Mental Health – CDC. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
