Opioid use disorder in pregnancy

Abstract

The number of pregnant people affected by the opioid epidemic in the United States continues to rise. The following key aspects of opioid use disorder in pregnancy are explored through the progression of a pregnancy via a patient case: treatment options, treatment decisions, substance use screening, dosing modifications, and other aspects of peripartum care. Many factors affect opioid use disorder treatment choices during pregnancy; however, when a pregnant person is medically eligible for a therapy and multiple options are available locally, the ultimate decision regarding treatment selection should be left up to the patient and strong support services provided. This approach to treatment results in optimal maternal and neonatal outcomes and long-term maternal engagement and retention in care.