Managing Opioid Addiction During Pregnancy: A Comprehensive Guide
Episode Overview
Treating opioid use disorder in pregnancy is crucial for the health of both mother and baby. Methadone and buprenorphine are recommended treatments. Withdrawal management is generally not advised due to high relapse risks. Emotional and physical challenges for new parents can increase relapse risk. Support systems are essential for pregnant women battling addiction.
"Pregnancy is hard enough without adding addiction into the mix," says Dr. Grover, "but with the right treatment, we can protect both mother and baby."
Pregnancy can be a challenging time, but when you add opioid addiction into the mix, it becomes even more complex. In this episode of Addiction Medicine Made Easy, Dr. Casey Grover takes you through the ins and outs of managing opioid use disorder during pregnancy. With a mix of humour and heartfelt stories, Dr. Grover shares practical advice and evidence-based approaches that protect both mother and baby through critical periods of care.
You'll hear about the rising rates of opioid use disorder in pregnant women and the sobering statistics on overdose deaths. Dr. Grover discusses the best treatment options, like methadone and buprenorphine, and why withdrawal management is generally not recommended. The episode also touches on the emotional and physical challenges new parents face, with anecdotes from Dr. Grover's own experiences as a parent.
By the end of the episode, you'll have a better understanding of how to support pregnant women battling opioid addiction and why it's crucial to keep them on their treatment plans. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in addiction medicine, especially those working in emergency or acute care settings. So, if you're looking for a comprehensive guide with a touch of humour, tune in to learn more about this critical topic.