Perinatal Substance Use Program
We work to create communities where all children are born free from exposure to alcohol, drugs and tobacco. We identify at-risk families and provide assistance from caring professionals. Pregnant women using harmful substances during pregnancy are referred to a Public Health Nurse who provides education, support and linkages to community resources. We help the expectant mother have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
10 Facts About Alcohol Use and Pregnancy
- No amount of alcohol is safe for a pregnant woman.
- Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can keep your baby from being born healthy.
- Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) can cause mental retardation.
- Children with FAS can have learning and behavior problems.
- Alcohol crosses into breastmilk.
- Some children may look “normal”, but their brains can be damaged.
- The effects of alcohol in pregnancy will last a lifetime.
- When a man drinks alcohol, his sperm are damaged.
- Only the medicines that a woman’s doctor gives her, during pregnancy, are safe.
- It is never too late in your pregnancy to quit drinking alcohol.
If you or a loved one is drinking or using drugs during pregnancy, there are people in the County who want to help. Below is a list of resources and information.
Contact
Seleta Dobrosky, RN, BSN, PHN
Program Coordinator
805-981-5190
800-781-4449 toll free number, press (2) then (1)