Substance Use

Using alcohol, tobacco/nicotine, cannabis, prescription medications in unsafe ways or illegal drugs during pregnancy and up to one year after giving birth can affect the health of mom and baby.

Substance use can happen for many reasons — stress, pain, trauma or mental health struggles — and is more common than many people think. During pregnancy and postpartum, it might be harder to stop or reduce use without support. Your doctor or care team can help with finding resources early and provide continuous care throughout your pregnancy and postpartum period, including helping you access medications for opioid use disorder. This can improve your health, reduce risks for your baby and help your family thrive long term. Substance use is a health issue, not a moral failing. Your care team might include doulas, community health workers or peer support specialists (peer recovery coaches). Through treatment and recovery services, you can get the support you need to keep you and your baby safe.

If you need assistance, counseling or resources related to alcohol, tobacco/nicotine, cannabis, opioids or other substances, please consider contacting these organizations.

EPICC Helpline (Peer Recovery Coach Services)
Call 816-412-9417 for help in Jackson, Clay, Platte and Ray counties.

TEL-LINK
800-TEL-LINK (800-835-5465) provides Missourians with confidential information on and referrals for maternal and child health services.

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 for help in English and Spanish (for Spanish text AYUDA to 988).