Improving Treatment for Drug-Exposed Infants
Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) Series 5

Maternal Health Services

Mothers of drug-exposed infants must have their basic health needs attended to if they are to function effectively in a parental role. These needs include:

1. Postpartum care.
2. Treatment of other health problems often attendant upon addiction. These health risks are discussed in Chapter 2 and are fully described in the TIP Pregnant, Substance-Using Women.
3. Training in infant care (including breastfeeding, if appropriate).
4. Reproductive health services, including family planning, contraception, and education concerning the increased risk of unintended pregnancy and HIV infection associated with the use of drugs and alcohol. These services should be delivered within the context of the mother's drug counseling to be most effective.
5. Counseling and testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Active efforts must be made to direct women who are HIV positive or have AIDS to appropriate services.
6. Educational efforts concerning the effects of illegal and legal drugs, including alcohol and tobacco, on the woman's health, the health of unborn children, and the health of the infant and siblings.

Again, health care services, training, and education should also be provided to the father as much as possible.