The Impact of Substance Use Disorder on Pregnancy

This episode of Beyond Substance explores the complex and often misunderstood topic of substance use disorder during pregnancy and beyond. Hosts Dean Babcock talks with expert Dr. Camila Arnado and Jodi Miller talks with Ashna Clark.Segment 1: Co-Host Dean Babcock talks with Dr. Camila Arnaudo. Dr. Arnaudo shares her journey as an addiction psychiatrist, her insights on the complexities of substance use among pregnant individuals, and the evolving trends in substance use. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the risks involved and the need for supportive care for pregnant individuals facing substance use disorders. This conversation delves into the complexities of substance use during and after pregnancy, highlighting the critical postpartum period where risks of relapse and overdose increase. Segment 2: In our personal story, Co-Host Jodi Miller welcomes Ashna Clark. Ashna shares her profound journey through addiction, motherhood, and recovery. She reflects on her challenging childhood, early pregnancies, and the difficult decisions she made, including giving her first child up for adoption. Ashna discusses her struggles with substance abuse, the turning points that led her to seek help, and the importance of community support in her recovery. Now a child advocate, she emphasizes the significance of being a present and loving mother, while also offering hope and encouragement to others facing similar challenges.TakeawaysThere are significant barriers to treatment for pregnant women with substance use disorders.The postpartum period presents unique challenges and risks for mothers in recovery.Stigma and fear of judgment prevent many from seeking help.Mothers often love their children deeply, despite their struggles with addiction.The relationship between mother and baby can motivate recovery efforts.Compassionate care is essential in treating substance use disorders during pregnancy.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Substance Use Disorder and Pregnancy03:08 Understanding the Statistics and Challenges06:01 Expert Insights from Dr. Camila Arnado12:12 The Complexities of Substance Use During Pregnancy17:50 The Postpartum Period: Risks and Realities23:59 Stigma and Barriers to Seeking Help30:00 Ashna Clark's Journey: A Personal Story of Recovery42:03 Hope and Support: Building a New Life45:52 Conclusion and Future DiscussionsPodcast Information:Hosted by: Dean Babcock & Jodi MillerExecutive Producer: Shawn P NealAudio Engineer: Shawn P NealMixed at: AdvoCast Studio236