Opioid Addiction After Childbirth – What Should You Do? : Opioid addiction is a growing problem in the United States, and one of the most vulnerable groups to this addiction is women who have recently given birth.
In fact, studies have shown that women who have given birth are more likely to become addicted to opioids than those who have not. This is partly due to many women getting prescribed opioid painkillers after childbirth to manage the pain associated with the delivery.
In the following, we’re going to shed some light on opioid addiction after childbirth and what you should do to tackle the condition.
Is Opioid Risky for Women After Childbirth?
The Ohio OUD doctors and physicians from other states have shared a common opinion. And the statement is, opioid use disorder has become a concern as they’re more frequently used by people who want to stop pain due to post-surgery or even simple body aches and cramps.
While opioids can effectively manage pain, they can also be highly addictive. Women who are prescribed opioids after childbirth are at an exceptionally high risk of becoming addicted, as they may continue to use the drugs beyond the recommended time frame, or they may take more than the prescribed dose to manage their pain.
Risks associated with opioids for a mother after childbirth are respiratory depression, addiction, neonatal abstinence syndrome, clouded judgment, drowsiness, constipation, etc.
How to Reduce the Risk of Opioid Addiction in a Postpartum Mother?
If you are a new mother who has been prescribed opioids after childbirth, there are several things you can do to reduce your risk of addiction.
The first and most crucial step is to follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the medication. This includes taking the medication only as prescribed, not taking more than the recommended dose, and not taking the medication for longer than recommended.
In addition to following your doctor’s instructions, there are other steps you can take to reduce your risk of addiction, including:
- Talking to your doctor about alternative pain management techniques, such as non-opioid prescriptions, therapies, OTC (over the counter) pain relievers, etc.
- Seeking support from family and friends.
- Being aware of the signs of opioid addiction, including increased tolerance to the medication, withdrawal symptoms when the medication is stopped, and using the medicines despite negative consequences.
- Seeking help if you do become addicted, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT), which involves the use of medications like methadone or buprenorphine to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
- Reaching out for counseling and support groups.
Conclusion
Opioid addiction after childbirth is a serious problem that can have long-lasting consequences for both the mother and her child. However, if you follow the tips we’ve shared above, you can limit the risks of addiction.
After all, opioids may be medically prescribed to reduce post-surgery pain, not to lure you into addiction while risking your and your baby’s lives.
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