It’s no secret that opioid use has increased significantly over the last several years. Even with the nation’s focus on the epidemic, there continue to be barriers to treatment. Those barriers are often even greater for pregnant and postpartum people. The opioid crisis has emphasized the systemic bias and discrimination that pregnant people, particularly people of color, who are struggling with opioid use disorder can face in healthcare systems and communities as a whole. This group may fear stigma from healthcare facilities and unintended consequences, including child welfare involvement, leading them to avoid seeking treatment for opioid use disorder.

Studies show that those living in rural areas face even more of an uphill battle in obtaining care. Access to medication and treatment providers is often limited. With fewer options and financial resources to pay for treatment and transportation, the already significant barriers become even more problematic for those in rural areas.

The barriers to treatment may be substantial, but they’re not impossible to overcome. As local professionals, we can band together to support those in our communities who need our help now more than ever. Together, we can help pregnant people with opioid use disorder prepare for a safe and healthy pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum period.

View Arbor Place’s self-screener for pregnant persons here.