Pregnancy and Postpartum

Substance use during pregnancy and the postpartum period presents unique challenges that require specialized support and resources. 

Women navigating recovery during this critical time often face additional barriers, including stigma, legal concerns, childcare needs, and complex health considerations related to pregnancy and breastfeeding. 

The resources in this guide address the full spectrum of needs for pregnant and postpartum women in recovery, including treatment options that accommodate mothers with infants, guidance on breastfeeding considerations, resources for addressing postpartum mental health in the recovery context, and support for navigating stigma and legal concerns. 

Healthcare providers working with this population will also find valuable resources to enhance their practice and better serve their patients.

By bringing together these diverse resources in one comprehensive guide, we aim to create the ultimate reference for women seeking recovery support during the pregnancy-to-postpartum journey and the professionals who serve them.

This comprehensive guide compiles 91 national resources specifically designed to support women in recovery from substance use during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

National Organizations and Hotlines

National organizations and hotlines provide immediate support, information, and referrals for women in recovery from substance use during pregnancy and postpartum. 

These resources offer 24/7 assistance, connecting women with local treatment options and support groups. Many provide specialized guidance for pregnant and postpartum women, addressing their unique challenges in recovery. 

These organizations also offer educational materials, peer support connections, and advocacy resources to help navigate the complex recovery journey during this critical life stage.

SAMHSA’s National Helpline – A free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.

National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) – Provides education, information, help, and hope to the public about alcohol and drug addiction.

National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) – Advances science on the causes and consequences of drug use and addiction and applies that knowledge to improve individual and public health.

American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) – A professional medical society representing physicians, clinicians, and associated professionals dedicated to increasing access to addiction treatment.

National Association for Children of Addiction (NACoA) – Provides resources and support for children and families affected by alcohol and drug addiction.

Faces & Voices of Recovery – Dedicated to organizing and mobilizing the over 23 million Americans in recovery from addiction to alcohol and other drugs.

Partnership to End Addiction – Provides personalized support and resources to families struggling with their son or daughter’s substance use.

Shatterproof – A national nonprofit organization dedicated to ending the devastation addiction causes families.

Young People in Recovery (YPR) – A national grassroots advocacy organization focused on creating recovery-ready communities for young people.

National Alliance for Medication Assisted Recovery (NAMA Recovery) – Dedicated to ensuring quality care for medication-assisted treatment patients.

Government Resources

Federal and state government agencies provide authoritative resources, guidelines, and programs specifically designed for pregnant and postpartum women in recovery. 

These resources offer evidence-based information, treatment locators, and policy guidance to help women access appropriate care and support. 

Government resources often include specialized programs for vulnerable populations, research findings on best practices, and educational materials that address the unique needs of women during pregnancy and the postpartum period. 

Many of these resources also provide guidance for healthcare providers serving this population.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – The agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that leads public health efforts to advance the nation’s behavioral health.

National Center on Substance Abuse and Child Welfare (NCSACW) – Provides information, resources, and training to improve outcomes for families affected by substance use disorders and child welfare involvement.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Substance Use During Pregnancy – Provides information and resources on substance use during pregnancy for both patients and healthcare providers.

Office on Women’s Health (OWH) – Provides information on women’s health topics, including substance use disorders during pregnancy.

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) – Supports and conducts research on the impact of alcohol use on human health and well-being.

Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB) – Works to improve the health of America’s mothers, children, and families.

FindTreatment.gov – SAMHSA’s treatment locator service to find mental health and substance use disorder treatment facilities.

MedlinePlus – Pregnancy and Substance Use – The National Library of Medicine’s resource for information on pregnancy and substance use.

Women’s Health.gov – Alcohol and Drugs – Government resource providing information on alcohol and drug use specific to women.

National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Opioid Use Disorder and Pregnancy – Research and resources on opioid use disorder during pregnancy.

Online Support Groups and Communities

The digital landscape offers valuable connection opportunities for pregnant and postpartum women in recovery who may face barriers to in-person support due to childcare responsibilities, transportation challenges, or stigma concerns. 

Online support groups and communities provide accessible, often anonymous spaces where women can share experiences, seek advice, and find encouragement from peers who understand their unique journey. 

These virtual communities offer 24/7 support, specialized forums for maternal recovery issues, and opportunities to build relationships with others navigating similar challenges. 

Many online resources also provide educational materials, recovery tools, and connections to additional services.

Postpartum Support International – Substance Use Recovery Support – Peer support group for those from pregnancy to two years postpartum who are engaged in recovery or considering recovery from substance use disorders.

SMART Recovery – Self-Management and Recovery Training (SMART) is a global community of mutual-support groups offering free, self-empowering, science-based support for recovery.

Soberistas – An international online recovery community for women seeking a sober life.

Women for Sobriety – The first and only self-help program specifically designed for women overcoming substance use disorders.

Sober Mommies – An online community providing resources and support for mothers in recovery.

The Temper – A digital publication exploring life through the lens of sobriety, addiction, and recovery.

r/OpiatesRecovery – A Reddit community for those recovering from opioid addiction.

r/StopDrinking – A supportive Reddit community focused on helping members stop drinking and maintain sobriety.

In The Rooms – A free online recovery tool that offers 130+ weekly online meetings for those recovering from addiction and related issues.

Sober Recovery – Online forums for people with substance use disorders and their friends and family.

Educational Resources

Educational resources provide evidence-based information, research findings, and practical guidance for pregnant and postpartum women in recovery and the healthcare providers who serve them. 

These resources offer critical knowledge about the effects of substance use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, treatment approaches, and strategies for supporting healthy maternal-infant bonding. 

Many educational materials address common concerns and misconceptions, helping to reduce stigma and promote informed decision-making. 

By accessing these resources, women and their care teams can better understand the recovery journey during this unique life stage.

Pregnancy and Substance Use: A Harm Reduction Toolkit – A comprehensive toolkit for pregnant and parenting people who use drugs, their loved ones, and service providers.

Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Clinical Protocol #21: Guidelines for Breastfeeding and Substance Use or Substance Use Disorder – Clinical guidelines for healthcare providers on breastfeeding considerations for women with substance use disorders.

ACOG Committee Opinion: Opioid Use and Opioid Use Disorder in Pregnancy – Clinical guidance from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists on managing opioid use during pregnancy.

MotherToBaby – Evidence-based information on the safety of medications and other exposures during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

ATTC Perinatal Provider Toolkit – Practice guidance, tools, and references on substance use treatment for pregnant and postpartum women.

National Perinatal Association – Position statements and resources on substance use in pregnancy.

March of Dimes – Alcohol and Drugs – Educational resources on the effects of alcohol and drugs during pregnancy.

Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association (CAPPA) – Educational resources for perinatal professionals who support women during pregnancy and postpartum.

Perinatal Mental Health Alliance for Women of Color – Resources addressing the unique needs of women of color during the perinatal period, including substance use recovery.

Reach Out, Read, Cuddle – Resources for parents in recovery on bonding with their infants and supporting healthy development.

Treatment Programs and Services

Finding appropriate treatment is a critical step for pregnant and postpartum women seeking recovery from substance use disorders. Specialized treatment programs that accommodate the unique needs of mothers and their infants are essential for successful recovery during this vulnerable period. 

These programs often provide comprehensive services, including medical care, counseling, parenting support, and childcare options. Many treatment facilities offer gender-specific approaches that address trauma, relationship issues, and the particular challenges women face in recovery. 

Resources in this section help women locate treatment providers, understand medication options, and find recovery housing that supports their journey as mothers.

SAMHSA’s Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator – A confidential and anonymous source of information for persons seeking treatment facilities in the United States for substance use/addiction and/or mental health problems.

American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) Treatment Locator – Tool to find physicians certified by the American Board of Addiction Medicine.

National Alliance of Advocates for Buprenorphine Treatment (NAABT) – Helps people find buprenorphine treatment providers for opioid addiction.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) – SAMHSA’s resources on medication-assisted treatment for substance use disorders.

Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation – Specialized treatment programs for pregnant women and mothers.

National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP) – Resources for finding quality addiction treatment.

Oxford Houses – Self-supporting recovery housing for individuals in recovery from alcohol and drug addiction.

Lifeline Connections – Programs specifically designed for pregnant and parenting women in recovery.

Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT) – SAMHSA’s center focused on improving and expanding substance use disorder treatment services.

National Council for Mental Wellbeing – Provides resources and support for mental health and substance use treatment organizations.

Resources for Healthcare Providers

Healthcare providers are crucial in supporting pregnant and postpartum women in recovery. These professionals need specialized knowledge and tools to deliver effective, compassionate care that addresses both substance use disorders and the unique needs of the maternal-infant dyad. 

Resources in this section offer evidence-based clinical guidelines, training opportunities, and practice recommendations that help providers implement best practices in screening, assessment, treatment, and ongoing support. 

By accessing these resources, healthcare professionals can enhance their competence in addressing the complex medical, psychological, and social needs of women in recovery during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

SAMHSA’s Clinical Guidance for Treating Pregnant and Parenting Women With Opioid Use Disorder and Their Infants – Comprehensive clinical guidance for healthcare providers.

Provider’s Clinical Support System for Medication-Assisted Treatment (PCSS-MAT) – Training and mentoring for healthcare providers on evidence-based practices in preventing and treating substance use disorders.

Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN) – Resources and position statements on optimizing outcomes for women with substance use disorders.

American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) – The ASAM National Practice Guideline – Clinical practice guidelines for the use of medications in the treatment of addiction involving opioid use.

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) – Substance Use – Resources for pediatricians working with families affected by substance use.

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) – Substance Use Disorder in Pregnancy Resources – Clinical resources for OB-GYNs treating pregnant women with substance use disorders.

National Association of Perinatal Social Workers (NAPSW) – Resources for social workers serving pregnant and postpartum women with substance use disorders.

American Psychiatric Association (APA) – Addiction and Substance Use Disorders – Resources for psychiatrists treating addiction and substance use disorders.

American Society of Addiction Nursing (ASAN) – Resources for nurses working in addiction treatment.

National Association of Social Workers (NASW) – Resources for social workers supporting individuals with substance use disorders.

Legal Support and Advocacy

Pregnant and postpartum women with substance use disorders often face significant legal challenges, including discrimination in healthcare settings, child welfare involvement, and even criminal prosecution in some jurisdictions. 

Legal support and advocacy resources provide critical assistance in navigating these complex issues, helping women understand their rights and access appropriate care without fear of punishment. 

These organizations work to reform policies that create barriers to treatment, advocate for evidence-based approaches that keep families together, and provide direct legal representation when needed. 

By connecting with these resources, women can find the support they need to address legal concerns while focusing on their recovery and parenting journey.

National Advocates for Pregnant Women (NAPW) – Legal advocacy organization dedicated to securing the human and civil rights of pregnant women, including those who use drugs.

Legal Action Center – Provides legal assistance and advocacy for people with histories of addiction, HIV/AIDS, or criminal records.

American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) – Women’s Rights Project – Advocates for the rights of women, including those affected by punitive responses to substance use during pregnancy.

Guttmacher Institute – Research and policy organization committed to advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights.

National Women’s Law Center – Advocates for women’s legal rights, including healthcare access and freedom from discrimination.

If/When/How: Lawyering for Reproductive Justice – Legal organization that transforms the law and policy landscape through advocacy, support, and organizing.

Equal Justice Under Law – Works to achieve equality in the criminal justice system, including for pregnant women with substance use disorders.

Center for Reproductive Rights – Legal advocacy organization dedicated to reproductive rights, including the rights of pregnant women who use substances.

National Health Law Program (NHeLP) – Advocates for the health rights of low-income and underserved individuals, including access to substance use treatment.

Drug Policy Alliance – Advocates for drug policies grounded in science, compassion, health, and human rights.

Breastfeeding Support in Recovery

Breastfeeding presents unique considerations for women in recovery from substance use disorders. Many mothers have questions about the safety of breastfeeding while taking medications for addiction treatment or managing their recovery journey. 

The resources in this section provide evidence-based guidance on breastfeeding during recovery, helping women make informed decisions supporting their health and their infant’s development. 

These resources address common concerns about medication safety, substance transfer through breast milk, and strategies for successful breastfeeding while maintaining recovery. 

By accessing accurate information and specialized support, women can confidently navigate breastfeeding decisions during this important phase of motherhood.

Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM) Clinical Protocol #21: Guidelines for Breastfeeding and Substance Use or Substance Use Disorder – Evidence-based clinical guidelines for healthcare providers on breastfeeding considerations for women with substance use disorders, including specific recommendations by substance type.

La Leche League International – Provides education, information, support, and encouragement to women who want to breastfeed, including those in recovery.

InfantRisk Center – Provides evidence-based information on the safety of medications during pregnancy and breastfeeding, with specific guidance for women in substance use recovery.

LactMed – Drugs and Lactation Database – National Library of Medicine database containing information on drugs and other chemicals to which breastfeeding mothers may be exposed, including substances of abuse and medications used in recovery.

International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) – Professional association for International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) who can provide specialized support for breastfeeding women in recovery.

United States Breastfeeding Committee (USBC) – Coalition of organizations dedicated to improving the nation’s health by working collaboratively to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding, including for vulnerable populations.

Medications and Mothers’ Milk Online – Comprehensive resource for healthcare providers on the safety of medications during breastfeeding, including those used in substance use treatment.

MotherToBaby Fact Sheets on Substances – Evidence-based information about exposures during pregnancy and breastfeeding, including alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, opioids, and medications used in recovery.

Breastfeeding and Medication – Factsheets on medications and breastfeeding from the Breastfeeding Network, including guidance for women in recovery.

Substance Use While Breastfeeding – CDC – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance on substance use while breastfeeding, including recommendations for healthcare providers and mothers.

Postpartum Mental Health Resources

The postpartum period presents significant mental health challenges for women, but those in recovery from substance use disorders face additional complexities. 

The intersection of recovery and postpartum adjustment can create unique vulnerabilities, including increased risk for relapse, postpartum depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress. 

Resources in this section address the specific mental health needs of women in recovery during the postpartum period, offering specialized support, screening tools, and treatment approaches. 

By connecting with these resources, women can find the comprehensive care they need to maintain their recovery while navigating the emotional and psychological transitions of new motherhood.

Postpartum Support International – Substance Use Recovery Support – Peer support group specifically for those from pregnancy to two years postpartum who are engaged in recovery or considering recovery from substance use disorders.

Postpartum Support International (PSI) – Provides support, education, and resources for women experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, with specialized resources for those in recovery.

MCPAP for Moms Toolkit for Substance Use Treatment Providers – Comprehensive toolkit for providers addressing both substance use disorders and mental health conditions in perinatal individuals.

SAMHSA’s Clinical Guidance for Treating Pregnant and Parenting Women With Opioid Use Disorder and Their Infants – Includes guidance on addressing postpartum mental health in the context of substance use recovery.

Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance – Advocates for policies that support maternal mental health, including for women in recovery.

2020 Mom – Works to close maternal mental health care gaps through education, advocacy, and collaboration.

The Blue Dot Project – Raises awareness of maternal mental health disorders and reduces stigma, supporting women in both recovery and mental health journeys.

Perinatal Support International – Provides support for parents experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, with resources that address the intersection of mental health and substance use recovery.

Therapy for Black Girls – Online space dedicated to encouraging the mental wellness of Black women and girls, including those in recovery, addressing the unique cultural contexts of maternal mental health.

Seleni Institute – Provides support and information for maternal mental health, with resources that acknowledge the complex needs of women in recovery.

Maternal Mental Health NOW – Works to remove barriers to the prevention, screening, and treatment of prenatal and postpartum depression, including for women with substance use histories.

Perinatal Mental Health Alliance for People of Color – Addresses the unique mental health needs of people of color during the perinatal period, including those navigating recovery from substance use.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – Provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, including new mothers experiencing mental health crises that substance use recovery challenges may complicate.

Peer Support Programs

Peer support plays a vital role in recovery for pregnant and postpartum women with substance use disorders. These programs connect women with others who have lived experience of both substance use recovery and motherhood, creating communities of understanding and mutual aid. 

Peer support offers unique benefits that complement professional treatment, including reduced isolation, practical guidance for navigating daily challenges, and hope through witnessing others’ success. 

The resources in this section include traditional 12-step programs, alternative recovery approaches, and specialized groups for women and parents. 

By engaging with peer support, women can build relationships that sustain their recovery while addressing the specific challenges of pregnancy and early parenthood.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) – Fellowship of individuals who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other to solve their common problem and help others recover from alcoholism.

Narcotics Anonymous (NA) – Twelve-step program for people who use drugs seeking recovery.

SMART Recovery – Global community of mutual-support groups offering free, self-empowering, science-based support for recovery.

LifeRing Secular Recovery – Network of support groups for people who want to live free of alcohol and drugs.

Refuge Recovery – Buddhist-inspired approach to recovery from addiction.

Celebrate Recovery – Christ-centered recovery program for all habits, hurts, and hang-ups.

Dual Recovery Anonymous – Twelve-step program for people with dual diagnosis (substance use disorder and mental health condition).

All Recovery Meetings – Inclusive meetings that welcome people from all recovery pathways.

Medication-Assisted Recovery Anonymous (MARA) – Support group for people in medication-assisted recovery.

Wellbriety Movement – Recovery movement in Native American communities that addresses substance use through culturally-based healing.

Family Support Resources

Family support is essential for pregnant and postpartum women in recovery, yet substance use disorders often strain family relationships and create complex dynamics. 

The resources in this section help families understand addiction, develop healthy communication patterns, and provide appropriate support for their loved ones in recovery. 

These organizations offer education, peer support, and practical strategies for family members navigating the challenges of supporting a pregnant or postpartum woman in recovery. 

Many resources also address the specific needs of children affected by parental substance use and provide guidance for rebuilding family bonds. 

By accessing these supports, families can heal together and create nurturing environments for both mother and child.

Al-Anon Family Groups – Support for families and friends of alcoholics.

Nar-Anon Family Groups – Support for those affected by someone else’s addiction.

Parents of Addicted Loved Ones (PAL) – Support for parents with a child who has an addiction.

Families Anonymous – Fellowship of parents, relatives, and friends concerned about the use of drugs or related behavioral problems.

National Family Support Network – Organization of family support providers serving families affected by substance use disorders.

Circle of Parents – Parent-led self-help support groups where parents and caregivers share ideas, celebrate successes, and address challenges.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren – Resources for grandparents raising grandchildren due to parental substance use.

Children of Alcoholics Foundation – Support for children of alcoholics and other substance abusers.

GRASP (Grief Recovery After a Substance Passing) – Support for those who have lost someone to substance use.

Partnership to End Addiction – Parent Coaching – Coaching program for parents of children struggling with substance use.