Healthy relationships are built on respect, trust, and mutual support. But sometimes, it’s easy to overlook the warning signs of an unhealthy relationship, especially if you’re already feeling vulnerable or unsure of yourself. If you’re navigating an unexpected pregnancy, it’s even more important to understand what a healthy, supportive relationship looks like—and what it doesn’t. At Options Health, we’re here to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can find support and guidance for your journey.

Here are some common signs of an unhealthy relationship and tips for protecting your well-being.

1. Lack of Respect for Boundaries

• In any relationship, your boundaries should be honored. An unhealthy partner may try to push you into decisions you’re not comfortable with, like moving too fast in the relationship, pressuring you into physical intimacy, or attempting to influence your choices regarding pregnancy. Respecting boundaries means valuing your needs and feelings, so pay attention to how your partner responds when you say “no” or set a boundary.

2. Constant Criticism and Putting You Down

• Everyone deserves to feel valued in a relationship. If your partner frequently criticizes you, belittles you, or makes you feel “less than,” it’s a red flag. Unhealthy partners may use negative comments to lower your self-esteem or make you feel dependent on them. A healthy partner lifts you up, respects your opinions, and appreciates who you are.

3. Control and Manipulation

• Unhealthy relationships often involve a degree of control where one partner manipulates or pressures the other. This might look like demanding to know where you are at all times, isolating you from friends or family, or controlling finances. Control can be subtle, too—like guilt-tripping you into decisions you’re not comfortable with. In a healthy relationship, both partners have equal say and independence.

4. Lack of Support for Your Choices and Goals

• A supportive partner encourages you to pursue your dreams and goals. If your partner dismisses your aspirations, makes you feel guilty for pursuing them, or tries to sway major decisions like whether or not to continue a pregnancy, it’s a sign of an unhealthy relationship dynamic. Healthy partners respect each other’s choices and work together to make decisions that honor both people.

5. Pressure to Make Decisions You’re Not Ready For

• Unhealthy partners may try to pressure you into big life choices without giving you time to think things over. This might be pushing you toward a major decision regarding your pregnancy, telling you what to do with your career, or expecting you to move in together or get married before you’re ready. It’s okay to take time to make thoughtful, informed decisions, especially when it comes to something as significant as a pregnancy.

6. Feeling Afraid or Unsafe

• If you ever feel afraid or unsafe around your partner—either physically or emotionally—it’s a strong sign that the relationship is unhealthy. Physical violence, threats, or any form of intimidation have no place in a healthy relationship. Trust your instincts and seek help if you ever feel in danger.

What to Do If You’re in an Unhealthy Relationship

Recognizing these signs can be difficult, but know that you’re not alone. If you suspect you’re in an unhealthy relationship, consider reaching out to someone you trust, like a friend, family member, or counselor. Talking about your experiences can be a first step toward finding clarity and support. At Options Health, we’re here to provide a safe space where you can explore your options and find the resources you need.

Remember, You Deserve Respect and Support

Every person deserves a relationship where they feel valued, respected, and supported. If you’re questioning the health of your relationship or need someone to talk to, we’re here for you. Our team at Options Health can provide guidance, counseling, and resources to help you make the best choices for your well-being.

Contact Options Health today to learn more about how we can support you in your journey toward a healthy, fulfilling life.

Options Health is a safe place where you can confidentially come and discuss sexual health, pregnancy, and relationship issues with one of our patient advocates.  Feel free to contact us today to take advantage of our free services, including pregnancy testing, ultrasound, pregnancy options consultation, STD testing, and abortion aftercare.

The post Recognizing the Signs of an Unhealthy Relationship appeared first on Options Health.

If you’ve recently discovered you’re pregnant and it wasn’t part of your plan, you might be feeling overwhelmed, scared, or uncertain about what to do next. These feelings are completely natural, and you don’t have to face them alone. At Options Health, we’re here to provide a safe, supportive place where you can find the guidance and resources you need to make an informed choice.

Take a Breath—We’re Here to Help

In moments like these, it’s easy to feel rushed to make a decision, but it’s okay to take time to consider what’s right for you. Our staff at Options Health understands that every woman’s situation is unique, and we’re committed to helping you explore all of your options without judgment or pressure. We’re here to provide a compassionate, listening ear and clear, honest information.

Free, Confidential Services Just for You

We know how important it is to understand your health and all your choices. At Options Health, we offer a range of no-cost, confidential services to give you the support and clarity you need:

• Pregnancy Testing: Our free pregnancy tests are highly accurate lab-grade urine tests to help confirm your pregnancy.
• Ultrasounds: Understanding how far along you are in your pregnancy can help you explore all available options. We provide free ultrasounds to give you this important information.
• Options Counseling: You may be weighing different choices—whether that’s parenting, adoption, or abortion. Our compassionate counselors will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and help you understand the emotional and practical aspects of each option.

Making a Decision That’s Right for You

It’s normal to feel conflicted or to have many questions. Whatever choice you’re considering, Options Health provides a safe space to work through your feelings, consider your future, and think about what’s best for you.

Remember, you don’t have to decide right away. Our goal is to help you move forward with confidence, whatever that looks like for you. We’re here to give you all the information and support you need to make the best decision for yourself.

You Are Not Alone

It’s okay to feel uncertain about the road ahead—many women have been in a similar place and have found a way forward with support and compassion. At Options Health, we’re honored to be a part of that journey, offering a judgment-free environment where you can feel understood and supported.

If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and aren’t sure what to do next, contact us today to schedule a free, confidential appointment. You don’t have to walk this path alone; we’re here with you, every step of the way.

The post Facing an Unplanned Pregnancy? You’re Not Alone appeared first on Options Health.

When it comes to sexual health, it’s helpful to understand the difference between sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Knowing what these terms mean can help you make informed choices and get the care you need if you’re concerned about your health. At Options Health, we offer free testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea, and we’re here to provide you with support and guidance.

What’s the Difference Between STIs and STDs?

You may have heard both terms used, but they mean slightly different things:

• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): An STI occurs when a virus, bacteria, or parasite is transmitted from one person to another through sexual contact. The infection may not cause symptoms right away, or ever, in some cases. However, you can still carry the infection and transmit it to others, even if you feel fine.
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): When an STI progresses and starts causing symptoms or health issues, it’s often referred to as an STD. Not every infection will develop into a disease; for example, some people with HPV (human papillomavirus) may never experience symptoms or health complications. When symptoms appear, the STI can then be classified as an STD.

In short, STI refers to the presence of the infection, often before symptoms develop, while STD indicates the infection has caused noticeable symptoms.

Common STIs and STDs

Some of the most common STIs include:

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
• Herpes
• HIV/AIDS
• Syphilis

Each of these infections can have unique symptoms, and while some can be cured with medication, others (like herpes and HIV) are manageable but cannot be cured.

What to Do if You Think You Might Have an STI

If you’re worried that you may have been exposed to an STI, or are experiencing symptoms, taking action is the best way to protect your health. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Recognize Possible Symptoms
   Some common symptoms of STIs include unusual discharge, itching, burning during urination, sores or blisters in the genital area, and lower abdominal pain. Keep in mind, however, that many STIs are asymptomatic, so it’s important to get tested even if you don’t have symptoms.
2. Get Tested
   The only way to know for sure if you have an STI is to get tested. Options Health offers free, confidential testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea. Testing is quick and straightforward. Many STIs are easier to treat when caught early, so don’t hesitate to come in if you have any concerns.
3. Avoid Sexual Contact Until You Know for Sure
   If you think you might have an STI, it’s best to avoid sexual activity until you’ve been tested and received results. This can help prevent spreading the infection to your partner(s).
4. Seek Treatment if Necessary
   If you test positive, follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for treatment. Some infections, like chlamydia and gonorrhea, can be treated with antibiotics. It’s also essential to notify your sexual partner(s) so they can be tested and treated as well.
5. Practice Safe Sex
   Using condoms or other barrier methods every time you have sex is one of the best ways to prevent STIs. Regular testing and open communication with your partner(s) are also key to maintaining your sexual health.

How Options Health Can Help

If you’re concerned about a potential STI or have questions about sexual health, Options Health is here to help. We provide free, confidential testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea and offer resources to support you in protecting your health. Our caring team can guide you through the next steps, answer any questions, and connect you with treatment options if necessary.

Taking charge of your sexual health is an empowering step, and you’re not alone. Whether you need testing, have questions about prevention, or just want information, we’re here for you.

Contact Options Health today to learn more about sexual health, STI testing, and how to protect yourself.

The post Understanding the Difference Between STDs and STIs—and What to Do if You Think You Might Have One appeared first on Options Health.

If you’ve found yourself in a situation where you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, and your boyfriend is pressuring you to have an abortion, it can feel overwhelming and confusing. You may feel torn between your partner’s wishes and your own feelings and values. At Options Health, we want you to know that you’re not alone, and we’re here to offer support, guidance, and a safe place to work through this difficult situation.

Your Feelings Matter

First and foremost, it’s important to remember that your feelings and beliefs about your pregnancy matter. The decision of whether to continue your pregnancy is deeply personal, and ultimately, it is your choice. While it’s natural to want to consider your partner’s perspective, it’s equally essential to honor what you feel is right for you.

At Options Health, we believe you deserve a space where your voice is heard and respected. We’re here to help you explore your options in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment.

Having an Open, Honest Conversation

If you feel safe doing so, consider having an open and honest conversation with your boyfriend. Sometimes, partners experience fear or pressure from their own circumstances—such as financial worries, future plans, or personal concerns—that may make abortion seem like the only viable option to them. By discussing these feelings together, you may be able to better understand each other’s perspectives.

Approaching the conversation calmly can help foster understanding. Here are some things you might try discussing:

• Share Your Feelings: Explain why you feel strongly about your decision. Let your partner know how important this is to you and what this pregnancy means in your life.
• Acknowledge His Concerns: Listen to his worries, and see if you can address some of them together. Discussing potential solutions may help ease his concerns.
• Ask for Support: Gently ask him to support you in the way that you need. Emphasize that while his perspective matters to you, the final choice should reflect what’s best for you and the baby.

Seeking Outside Support

Sometimes, couples may need extra support to work through a difficult decision like this. At Options Health, we offer free, confidential counseling to help you explore your options, understand your rights, and feel empowered to make a decision that honors your needs and values. You may also consider talking to a trusted friend, family member, or counselor who can offer perspective and emotional support.

Trusting Yourself

This is a decision that will affect you in profound ways, and it’s important to trust yourself as you consider your options. You know your own heart, values, and what you’re capable of. Give yourself permission to make the decision that feels right for you, no matter what others may be encouraging.

You’re Not Alone

Facing an unplanned pregnancy in a challenging relationship dynamic is difficult, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Options Health, we’re here to provide compassionate support and accurate information so you can make an informed, confident choice.

If you’re struggling with this decision, contact us today. Our caring team is here to walk alongside you with empathy, understanding, and support.

The post When Your Partner Wants an Abortion, but You Don’t: Navigating Difficult Decisions appeared first on Options Health.

Understanding the Types of Abortion Procedures

When facing an unexpected pregnancy, it’s natural to have questions about all available options, including abortion. At Options Health, our mission is to provide accurate, unbiased information, so that you feel informed and empowered in your decision-making. Here’s an overview of the main types of abortion procedures and what each entails.

Medication Abortion (The Abortion Pill)

Gestational Age: Up to 10 weeks

Description: Also known as a medical abortion, this procedure involves taking two medications, mifepristone and misoprostol, over a few days. Mifepristone blocks the hormone needed for pregnancy to continue, and misoprostol causes the uterus to expel the pregnancy tissue. This process is often completed at home.

Considerations: Side effects can include cramping, heavy bleeding, nausea, and dizziness. If the procedure is incomplete, a follow-up surgical abortion may be needed.

Surgical Abortion: Aspiration Abortion

Gestational Age: Typically up to 13 weeks

Description: Aspiration abortion, also known as suction abortion, is a common procedure for early pregnancies. This involves using gentle suction to remove pregnancy tissue from the uterus, typically performed in a clinic with local anesthesia.

Considerations: Side effects can include cramping, light bleeding, and, in rare cases, complications like infection or injury to the uterus.

Surgical Abortion: Dilation and Curettage (D&C)

Gestational Age: 13 to 16 weeks

Description: This procedure is generally done in the second trimester, often as a follow-up if the aspiration abortion was incomplete. The doctor dilates the cervix and uses surgical instruments to remove tissue from the uterus.

Considerations: As with any surgical procedure, there are risks, such as infection, heavy bleeding, or uterine scarring.

Surgical Abortion: Dilation and Evacuation (D&E)

Gestational Age: After 16 weeks

Description: Dilation and evacuation involve a combination of suction and surgical instruments to remove the pregnancy tissue. This is often performed for pregnancies past the first trimester and is done in a clinic or hospital setting.

Considerations: D&E is a more complex procedure with a higher risk of complications, including potential impacts on future pregnancies. As with all procedures, follow-up care is essential to monitor recovery.

Making an Informed Choice

Every type of abortion has its own process, risks, and possible side effects. If you’re exploring your options, you don’t have to go through this alone. At Options Health, we provide pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and options counseling to give you a complete picture of your pregnancy and help you make a decision you feel confident about.

If you have questions about abortion procedures or would like more information on your options, our caring staff is here to help, contact us today.

The post Types of Abortion Procedures appeared first on Options Health.

Experiencing a range of emotions after an abortion is normal, and for many, feelings of grief and loss can be part of the journey. This kind of grief is real and valid, even though it’s often overlooked or unspoken in our society. At Options Health, we want you to know that you don’t have to face these feelings alone—there are compassionate, understanding people ready to walk alongside you as you process your loss and find healing.

Recognizing the Grief

Grief after an abortion can look different for everyone, ranging from feelings of sadness and regret to guilt or even numbness. You may feel these emotions immediately, or they may surface months or even years later. It’s important to remember that grief is a personal process with no specific timeline or “right” way to feel.

Some women find themselves questioning their decision, wondering how life might have looked with their child, or feeling a sense of emptiness. For others, the emotions may be subtle but ever-present. Whatever you’re feeling, it’s important to acknowledge it and give yourself permission to grieve.

Finding Ways to Heal

Healing from the loss of a child through abortion can involve various forms of support and self-care. Here are some steps that may be helpful on your journey:

• Seek Support: Talking to someone who understands can be incredibly comforting. This might mean confiding in a trusted friend or family member or connecting with a support group for women who have experienced similar losses.
• Consider Counseling: Counseling can be a safe space to process complex emotions, particularly when they feel overwhelming. Many pregnancy centers, including Options Health, offer post-abortion counseling that provides compassionate, nonjudgmental support.
• Create a Memorial: Honoring your child in a way that feels meaningful to you can help bring closure and comfort. This might include writing a letter, planting a tree, or creating a piece of art. Memorializing your experience, however simple or private, can be a healing way to acknowledge your loss.
• Allow Yourself Time: Healing doesn’t happen overnight. Take things one day at a time, be kind to yourself, and know that it’s okay to revisit feelings of grief as they arise.

You’re Not Alone

It’s easy to feel isolated in this journey, but remember that many women have walked a similar path. At Options Health, we believe in the power of compassionate community and are here to provide a safe space for you to process, grieve, and find hope.

If you’re struggling with post-abortion grief, please reach out to us. We offer confidential counseling and support resources designed to help you heal and move forward. You don’t have to carry this alone—healing is possible, and there are people who care about your journey.

Contact Options Health today to learn more about post-abortion counseling and support.

The post Grieving the Loss of a Child After Abortion: Finding Healing and Hope appeared first on Options Health.

Understanding the Risks of Abortion: What You Need to Know

When faced with an unexpected pregnancy, the decision-making process can feel overwhelming. For some, abortion may appear to be a quick solution, but it’s essential to understand the potential physical and emotional risks involved. At Options Health, we aim to empower you with facts, resources, and support so you can make the most informed choice for your future.

Physical Risks

Abortion procedures vary depending on how far along the pregnancy is, and each carries its own set of risks. Some potential physical complications include:

• Infection: If any tissue remains in the uterus, it can lead to infection, which may require further medical intervention.
• Heavy Bleeding: While some bleeding is normal, excessive bleeding can indicate complications, requiring medical attention.
• Uterine Injury: Surgical abortion procedures can sometimes lead to injuries to the uterus or other organs, impacting future fertility.

Emotional and Psychological Impact

The emotional aftermath of an abortion varies greatly from person to person, but it can include feelings of sadness, regret, or guilt. Some women may experience what is often called post-abortion stress, which can affect mental health over time. Many women find it helpful to connect with support groups or counselors who can provide non-judgmental support during this time.

Your Health, Your Choice

Our team at Options Health is here to provide you with compassionate, confidential care as you explore your options. We offer pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and options counseling, so you can feel confident that you have all the information you need. Whatever you decide, know that we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule a no-cost consultation and learn more about your choices.

The post Understanding the Risks of Abortion: What You Need to Know appeared first on Options Health.

However, if the mother is addicted to drugs or alcohol, she may not have the same focus and possibly feel hopeless.  Help is available for pregnant women who struggle with substance abuse. Over the years, more and more rehabilitation programs have begun to incorporate services for pregnant women.

We are currently in the final part of a five-part series on Substance Abuse During Pregnancy, and in this post, we will be covering the topic: Help for Pregnant Women.  If you missed the first four parts, click here to visit our blog page.

Comprehensive addiction treatment for pregnant women may include the following:

• Medical detox, if needed
• A specialized treatment plan designed by professionals from various specialties
• Pregnancy education and counseling (You can find this at Options Health!)
• Parenting training (You can find this at Options Health!)
• Individual, group, and family therapy
• Assessment and therapy for co-occurring disorders
• 12-step programming
• Prenatal care
• Life skills workshops
• Aftercare planning

Therapeutic approaches that have been shown to be effective in treating pregnant women with substance use disorders include contingency management, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapy.

• Contingency Management:  Uses rewards, such as vouchers, to reinforce positive behaviors such as abstaining from drug use.
• Motivational Interviewing:  Helps pregnant women work through any hesitations they have about beginning rehab and adjusting their behaviors.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy:  Helps women gain insight into the situations that lead them to use substances; break old patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving; and replace those habits with new ones.

For pregnant women seeking help, there is often a fear of judgment.  Many fear they will be arrested, forced to have an abortion, asked to leave a prenatal care program, and reported to child protective services.

These are all legitimate concerns that can be addressed with an intake specialist at a treatment center. If the rehab center is equipped to work with pregnant women, staff members should understand these concerns and be able to alleviate anxiety about taking the next step toward a healthier lifestyle.

In evaluating options, it’s important to consider what would happen if one does not get help.  The risks to an unborn baby are high, not to mention the consequences for the mother if substance abuse continues.  Addiction only grows without intervention, as do the harsh realities accompanying addiction.

A newborn baby’s life is a time for celebration, just as much as each day of sobriety.  Pregnant women can enjoy this fresh journey in life with newfound sobriety and continued recovery.  Comprehensive care, along with a nurturing and supportive environment, offers the baby and mother the best chances for a full recovery.  At Options Health, we would be happy to come alongside you and connect you with the best treatment and rehabilitation centers in our area.

For overall parenting help, we have a wonderful program to help women as they navigate motherhood.  Earn While You Learn (EWYL) is a free program that provides education, emotional support, and material resources to expectant mothers through the toddler years of their baby’s life.  Once enrolled in EWYL, you will be connected with a mentor to guide you through an amazing curriculum of parenting classes where you earn credits to be spent in our Care Closet; where you can get diapers, wipes, baby clothes, baby furniture, and more!

Are you a father?  If so, we have an awesome program for you too!  FIT (Fathers In Training) is a free program that will challenge you to be the best father you can be by walking alongside you through our skill-building fatherhood classes and mentorship.

If you are interested in either of these free programs, please contact us today!

Options Health is a safe place where you can confidentially come and discuss sexual health, pregnancy, and relationship issues with one of our patient advocates.  Feel free to contact us today to take advantage of our free services, including pregnancy testing, ultrasound, pregnancy options consultation, STD testing, and abortion aftercare.  Call us to schedule an appointment. We are here for you and ready to listen!

Source: http://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/pregnant-women/

The post Substance Abuse During Pregnancy: Help for Pregnant Women appeared first on Options Health.

However, if the mother is addicted to drugs or alcohol, she may not have the same focus and possibly feel hopeless.  Help is available for pregnant women who struggle with substance abuse. Over the years, more and more rehabilitation programs have begun to incorporate services for pregnant women.

We are currently in the fourth part of a five-part series on Substance Abuse During Pregnancy. In this post, we will cover the topic: Detoxing for Pregnant Women.  If you missed the first three parts, click here to visit our blog page, and make sure to come back in the next few weeks as we cover the final topic.

If you’re a pregnant woman looking for help, please consider a rehab center that is well-versed in treating pregnant women.  Pregnancy necessitates specialized treatment during both detox and addiction treatment. Not all facilities are equipped to help pregnant women, so it’s important to confirm this area of expertise before enrolling in a particular program.

In a 2017 study by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 22.4% of rehab facilities offered specialized care for pregnant or postpartum women.  Additionally, studies suggest that women abusing substances are more likely to have medical and mental health problems, as well as a history of physical or sexual abuse, and therefore may require dedicated treatment to address these issues as well.

According to SAMHSA, a model detox and rehab program for pregnant women should include:

• Pregnancy and parenting education
• Staff with medical, mental health, and addiction treatment backgrounds
• Continuity with counselors
• Health and psychiatric services
• Child care services
• Transportation services
• Housing services

Treatment can make a difference. One study found that substance abuse therapy for pregnant women led to increased fetal growth, which lowered the chance of negative neonatal outcomes.  In addition, methadone treatment can lower the risk of relapse, boost adherence with prenatal care, and lead to better outcomes for the newborn.

As discussed in the last blog, part 3 of this series, there are some risks in going through detox while pregnant, such as miscarriage and infant withdrawal symptoms from opioid replacement medications such as methadone and buprenorphine.

However, babies that are born to women on methadone are generally as healthy as other infants.  The long-term effects of methadone on children are unknown, but these babies are much healthier than those born to mothers using heroin.

Additionally, women who are on methadone and are not HIV-positive may breastfeed.  The advantages of breastfeeding outweigh the risks of a small amount of methadone entering breast milk, but any decisions about breastfeeding should be discussed with your doctor.

A newborn baby’s life is a time for celebration, just as much as each day of sobriety.  Pregnant women can enjoy this fresh journey in life with newfound sobriety and continued recovery.  Comprehensive care, along with a nurturing and supportive environment, offers the baby and mother the best chances for a full recovery.  At Options Health, we would be happy to come alongside you and connect you with the best treatment and rehabilitation centers in our area.

For overall parenting help, we have a wonderful program to help women as they navigate motherhood.  Earn While You Learn (EWYL) is a free program that provides education, emotional support, and material resources to expectant mothers through the toddler years of their baby’s life.  Once enrolled in EWYL, you will be connected with a mentor to guide you through an amazing curriculum of parenting classes where you earn credits to be spent in our Care Closet; where you can get diapers, wipes, baby clothes, baby furniture, and more!

Are you a father?  If so, we have an awesome program for you too!  FIT (Fathers In Training) is a free program that will challenge you to be the best father you can be by walking alongside you through our skill-building fatherhood classes and mentorship.

If you are interested in either of these free programs, please contact us today!

Options Health is a safe place where you can confidentially come and discuss sexual health, pregnancy, and relationship issues with one of our patient advocates.  Feel free to contact us today to take advantage of our free services, including pregnancy testing, ultrasound, pregnancy options consultation, STD testing, and abortion aftercare.  Call us or text us to schedule an appointment. We are here for you and ready to listen!

Source: http://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/pregnant-women/

The post Substance Abuse During Pregnancy: Detoxing for Pregnant Women appeared first on Options Health.

However, if the mother is addicted to drugs or alcohol, she may not have the same focus and possibly feel hopeless.  Help is available for pregnant women who struggle with substance abuse. Over the years, more and more rehabilitation programs have begun to incorporate services for pregnant women.

We are currently in the third part of a five-part series on Substance Abuse During Pregnancy. In this post, we will cover the topic: Detoxing Defined.  If you missed the first two parts, click here to visit our blog page, and make sure to come back over the next few weeks as we cover the remaining topics.

It’s imperative that anyone, especially a pregnant woman, be under a doctor’s care to detox from alcohol and/or drugs, both for her safety and for the health of her unborn child.  Detox methods ultimately depend on the substance that has been used, the level of abuse, and the mother’s health and psychiatric history.  Pregnant women, particularly those addicted to alcohol, should seek treatment in an inpatient setting due to the risk of miscarriage during detox.  Those addicted to sedatives and opioids should also consider an inpatient setting with 24-hour medical care.

In some instances, such as opioid addiction, substitute medications like methadone may be used during detox.  The use of methadone, combined with prenatal care, can enhance outcomes for mothers and their babies.  With that said, newborns exposed to methadone may still need treatment for withdrawal symptoms.  Some studies indicate that replacement therapy with buprenorphine (which is also available as Suboxone, a combination product with naloxone) may be associated with less acute infant withdrawal than methadone.

In the case of alcohol detoxification, the process may include the use of other prescribed medications when deemed necessary by a doctor. However, these should be used with caution, as typical medications used in alcohol detox, such as benzodiazepines, may themselves be associated with certain fetal and neonatal risks.  There is little research on other medications often used to augment the treatment of alcohol dependence, such as disulfiram (Antabuse), naltrexone, acamprosate, topiramate, baclofen, and ondansetron.

During the detox period, other recovery resources may be incorporated to help pregnant women learn to live drug-free lives.  While detox and medical stabilization are critical, they do not constitute drug addiction treatment alone.  Detox should be followed by comprehensive therapy to address the causes that led to substance abuse.

A newborn baby’s life is a time for celebration, just as much as each day of sobriety.  Pregnant women can enjoy this fresh journey in life with newfound sobriety and continued recovery.  Comprehensive care, along with a nurturing and supportive environment, offers the baby and mother the best chances for a full recovery.  At Options Health, we would be happy to come alongside you and connect you with the best treatment and rehabilitation centers in our area.

For overall parenting help, we have a wonderful program to help women as they navigate motherhood.  Earn While You Learn (EWYL) is a free program that provides education, emotional support, and material resources to expectant mothers through the toddler years of their baby’s life.  Once enrolled in EWYL, you will be connected with a mentor to guide you through an amazing curriculum of parenting classes where you earn credits to be spent in our Care Closet; where you can get diapers, wipes, baby clothes, baby furniture, and more!

Are you a father?  If so, we have an awesome program for you too!  FIT (Fathers In Training) is a free program that will challenge you to be the best father you can be by walking alongside you through our skill-building fatherhood classes and mentorship.

If you are interested in either of these free programs, please contact us today!

Options Health is a safe place where you can confidentially come and discuss sexual health, pregnancy, and relationship issues with one of our patient advocates.  Feel free to contact us today to take advantage of our free services, including pregnancy testing, ultrasound, pregnancy options consultation, STD testing, and abortion aftercare.  Call us or text us to schedule an appointment. We are here for you and ready to listen!

Source: http://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/pregnant-women/

The post Substance Abuse During Pregnancy: Detoxing Defined appeared first on Options Health.