Saving Two Lives: How I Manage Opioid Addiction During Pregnancy

Join me, Dr. Casey Grover, as I provide a comprehensive guide to treating opioid use disorder during pregnancy, examining evidence-based approaches that protect both mother and baby through critical periods of care. The statistics are sobering - opioid use disorder in pregnancy has more than doubled in recent years, with overdoses now a leading cause of pregnancy-associated death.• Two major medical societies (ACOG and ASAM) recommend treating with methadone or buprenorphine rather than attempting medication-free withdrawal• Buprenorphine shows slight advantages over methadone for pregnancy outcomes, but the best choice is whichever medication keeps the mother sober• Neonatal abstinence syndrome occurs when babies experience withdrawal after birth, but can often be managed with supportive care rather than medication• Medication dosages often need adjustment during pregnancy as increased blood volume dilutes medication concentration• Breastfeeding is compatible with both methadone and buprenorphine treatment• The postpartum period brings unique challenges that increase relapse risk, requiring enhanced support for new mothers• Two patient cases illustrate both successful treatment and the challenges of maintaining recovery while parenting a newbornVisit centralcoastoverdoseprevention.org to learn more about preventing overdose deaths in your community.To contact Dr. Grover: [email protected]