Drugs in Pregnancy: Getting Help Guide
Drugs in pregnancy: getting help
Finding out you're pregnant while using recreational or street drugs can bring a rush of fear, guilt and uncertainty. This guide sets out, in plain and non-judgemental terms, how to get confidential support from NHS services, so you and your baby get the care you both deserve.
You deserve compassionate, non-judgemental care
If you use drugs and you are pregnant - or planning to be - the single most helpful thing you can do is tell someone who can help. NHS maternity services exist to support you, not to judge or report you for using drugs. Midwives and specialist teams see this regularly, and the sooner you reach out, the more they can do to protect you and your baby.
Why getting help matters
Drug use in pregnancy can affect your baby's growth, raise the chance of premature birth, and in some cases cause your newborn to experience withdrawal symptoms after delivery. Different substances carry different risks, and the picture can also depend on how much and how often you use. Importantly, suddenly stopping some drugs - particularly opioids - can itself be risky for your baby, so this is not something to manage alone. Professional, supervised support keeps both of you safer than either continuing to use or stopping abruptly without help.
Who to talk to
Your GP, your midwife, or a local drug and alcohol service are all good first contacts. Any of them can refer you to a specialist perinatal substance use team where one is available in your area. These conversations are confidential, and the focus is entirely on keeping you and your baby well.
- Tell your midwife at your next appointment, or call the maternity unit to ask for an earlier one
- Ask your GP for a referral to specialist drug and alcohol services
- Contact a local drug and alcohol service directly - you do not need a referral to self-refer
- If you feel unable to say it out loud, some services accept written or online contact first
What support typically looks like
Support is built around your individual circumstances rather than a one-size-fits-all plan. It may include substitute prescribing (such as opioid substitution therapy under medical supervision), counselling, closer antenatal monitoring, mental health support, and practical help with housing or money if needed. Your team will also help plan for the birth itself and the days afterwards, so withdrawal symptoms in your baby can be anticipated and managed, and your own recovery is supported too.
If you're worried about telling someone
Feeling anxious about disclosing drug use is completely understandable, but maternity and specialist teams are trained specifically to support women in this situation. Being honest early gives your team the best chance to protect your baby's health and support you through pregnancy, birth and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I get in trouble for telling my midwife I use drugs?
No. Your midwife's role is to support your health and your baby's health, not to punish you. Conversations about drug use are handled confidentially and compassionately, with the aim of connecting you to the right support as quickly as possible.
Is it dangerous to stop taking drugs suddenly once I know I'm pregnant?
For some substances, particularly opioids, stopping abruptly without medical support can be risky for your baby. Speak to your GP, midwife or a drug and alcohol service straight away so any reduction or substitution can be managed safely under supervision.
Where can I get confidential advice about drug use in pregnancy?
You can call FRANK on 0300 123 6600 for free, confidential advice about drugs at any time, speak to your GP or midwife, or self-refer to your local drug and alcohol service. In an emergency, always call 999.
This article is for general information only and does not replace advice from your midwife, GP or a specialist drug and alcohol service.
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