Substance or Alcohol Use in Pregnancy

Our Medical Social Work Department offers a specialist service to expectant mothers who are experiencing problematic substance use in their pregnancy.

Our role as Medical Social Workers specialising in the area of Substance Use in Pregnancy is to help you feel heard without fear or judgement.  

Pregnancy is a time when many women want to know what they can do to keep themselves and their baby safe & healthy.

Here in the Medical Social Work Department, we understand that no two pregnancy journeys are the same and for some women who are experiencing issues with substance and/or alcohol use or addiction, there are can be some additional worries or questions about their pregnancy.

When we use the term ‘Substance Use’ we refer to a person who is taking prescribed or un-prescribed drugs and/or alcohol.

What is a Drug Liaison Midwife?

A specialist midwife who will meet with you to provide information and advice on the risks associated with substance use in pregnancy so that you are equipped to make safe & informed decisions for your Baby.

What happens when I meet with a Medical Social Worker?

We can:

meet with you in a safe, confidential space within the Hospital.
complete an “assessment” to learn more about you and what is going on for you at this time in your life.
provide education around the risks associated with substance use in pregnancy
provide support and advocacy for relevant treatment centres/community support services available to you.
support in re-connecting / re-building those networks of supports, either professional or personal that are important to you, whereby there has been a breakdown in relationships
provide you with a non-judgemental, compassionate and empathetic service
refer you to our Drug Liaison Midwife Service within the Hospital

Contact Details

Email socialworkadmin@nmh.ie

Phone: 01 6373236

Office Hours: Monday – Saturday 7am – 7pm

Any professional working in the hospital can make a referral.  Patients can also self refer.