Skip to content

Upcoming changes to UnitedHealthcare coverage.

Learning about substance use during and after pregnancy: Overview

Top of the page

Learning about substance use during and after pregnancy: Overview

Substance use means drinking alcohol, using drugs, smoking, or vaping. It can also include the misuse of prescription or over-the-counter medicines. It's safest not to use substances if you are planning to become pregnant, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Using them can cause problems during and after pregnancy.

Find a doctor or midwife you can trust. It's important to feel safe and respected when talking about substance use.

If you can, bring someone with you to your doctor or midwife visits. This could be a friend or a doula. They can help you talk to your doctor or midwife.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff
Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff

Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. WebMD Ignite, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about WebMD Ignite, visit webmdignite.com.

© 2024-2026 WebMD Ignite.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. WebMD Ignite, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

NOTICE: This health information was not created by Columbia University Irving Medical Center and may not necessarily reflect specific CUIMC practices. For medical advice to your personal condition, please consult your doctor. Medical advice disclaimer.