Program for Substance Use in Pregnancy

The Partnering for the Future Clinic (PFF)

Drug and alcohol use are more common during pregnancy than the general public may realize. Pregnancy can be a time of hope and anticipation but, for women struggling with substance use, it can be frightening and isolating. Social stigma, embarrassment, and the potential for legal complications are barriers between many women and the support they deserve

The Program for Substance Use in Pregnancy, which houses the Partnering for the Future (PFF) Clinic at the Von Voigtlander Women’s Hospital, is dedicated to caring for pregnant women who use high-risk medications or drugs during their pregnancy. Our specialists provide supportive care with multidisciplinary expertise in substance dependence during pregnancy. We are here to offer a safe place to tell your story and help you get the best plan of care for you and your baby during and after your pregnancy.

Our approach to prenatal care

Research has shown that consistent prenatal care makes a difference in both you and your baby’s health. We are here to partner with you to provide coordinated care, support you in a healthy lifestyle, safeguard your pregnancy, and work towards a future for you and your baby.

Your personalized care plan could include:

  • Initiation into a structured program to address your substance use needs and the effects on your unborn child
  • Substitute prescribing (i.e. referrals to Methadone programs, inpatient rehabilitation, or prescriptions of Subutex/Suboxone)
  • Preparation for delivery (review pain control plan with our anesthesia team, discuss our approach to substance exposed infants through collaboration with pediatrics and neonataology)

Together, we will work through a number of considerations related to your pregnancy and childbirth, including:

  • Possible need for extended hospitalization
  • Managing withdrawal in your baby
  • Breastfeeding and other feeding options for your baby
  • Pain management plan for childbirth and postpartum
  • Postpartum expectations
  • Peripartum mood disorders
  • Community resources that may help support you during and after pregnancy

Some aching and discomfort is a normal part of pregnancy. This type of normal pain is not the focus of our pain management services, but rather the safe reduction of pain unrelated to the normal discomfort of pregnancy.

What to expect at your appointment

Each patient’s story is different and our team approach to caring for you and your baby will be personalized to your own health and personal needs. Regular prenatal care helps optimize both your and your baby’s health. Remember, the health of the mom is important to the health of the baby. Our goal is to support your pregnancy and promote great parenting skills for you to fully nurture your baby after delivery.

At your first appointment, our team will take a complete and thorough history to help develop the best possible care plan. Please feel comfortable in telling us all the medications you are taking, and if you have a medical marijuana card. Our care for you is only as good as the information you provide to us. We will do a physical exam and lab work as needed. There may be an ultrasound. The first visit is usually a lengthy appointment to obtain your history and for you to meet our team members.

Subsequent appointments may be scheduled weekly or bi-weekly, if needed.

We will address substance use and medical needs. Our approach is to also offer support regarding community services. We can provide information on housing, treatment centers, counseling and protective services.

In some situations, the state requires Children’s Protective Services (CPS) referrals.  We provide open dialogue and guidance regarding CPS.

Our team

All members of our team are trained to care for pregnant women who use high-risk medications and substances and experience chronic pain in pregnancy. Our team members include:

  • High-risk obstetricians
  • Addiction and pain psychiatrists
  • Nurse practitioner
  • Nurses
  • Social workers
  • Physical therapist

A shared commitment

Entering into a substance control management or treatment program can be scary, and we understand it can be difficult to seek help and share this part of your life. You are not alone, and you can count on our team for a compassionate and respectful patient-centered approach to care.

Our team is committed to supporting you throughout your journey. As part of our shared commitment, we will develop a plan of care that is personalized for you and your baby.

If you have concerns about your medications or your drug use, we encourage you to speak with us with confidence as we are committed to the health and safety of you and your baby.

Additional Resources

Take the next step

  • To make an appointment or speak with a member of our team:
    734-763-6295
    Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • For triage, possible labor, or immediate concerns, call OB triage:
    734-764-8134
    24 hours a day, 7 days a week