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FACTS Fight Fentanyl toolkit
Toolkit Highlight
Pregnancy, Fentanyl & Recovery
Why This Matters
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that has dramatically increased overdose risk nationwide. For people who are pregnant or may become pregnant, misinformation and fear often prevent them from seeking help. Facts save lives — and support saves families.
Opioid Use During Pregnancy
What Is Fentanyl?
• Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid up to 50 times stronger than heroin.
• It is often mixed into other drugs without a person’s knowledge.
• It can be present in pills that look like prescription medications.
• Even very small amounts can cause overdose.
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl & Pregnancy: Key Facts
• Fentanyl can cross the placenta.
• Exposure during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS).
• Sudden withdrawal during pregnancy can be dangerous for both the parent and baby.
• Seeking medical care is safer than stopping opioid use alone.
Fentanyl exposure can cause Pregnancy problems
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) During Pregnancy
Medication Treatment During Pregnancy
Medication-assisted treatment saves lives.
• Methadone and buprenorphine are recommended during pregnancy.
• MAT reduces overdose risk and improves pregnancy outcomes.
• Treatment supports stability for both parent and baby.
• Stopping opioids suddenly without medical supervision can increase health risks.
Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS)
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Some babies exposed to opioids may experience temporary withdrawal symptoms after birth.
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NOWS is treatable.
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Many babies recover fully with proper medical care.
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Breastfeeding may be encouraged in some treatment situations when guided by a provider.
Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome
Stigma vs. Facts
Myth: Pregnant people who use substances do not care about their baby.
Fact: Fear of judgment often prevents people from seeking help.
Myth: Treatment harms the baby.
Fact: Untreated opioid use is far riskier than evidence-based treatment.
Fentanyl kills: Stigma is insane
Harm Reduction Saves Lives
• Naloxone (Narcan) is safe to use during pregnancy.
• Avoid using substances alone when possible.
• Test substances when available.
• Know overdose warning signs.
• Call 911 during an overdose — Good Samaritan laws may apply.
Pregnancy and parenting a substance abuse: Queeon’s story
You Deserve Support
Recovery is not one-size-fits-all. Support may include prenatal care, medication-assisted treatment, peer support, mental health services, and parenting resources.
You are not alone help exists without judgment.
Shatterproof Walk Story:
Alexis Cavo
Watch more Statterproof Walk stories here:
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