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However, as I'm getting closer to my due date (June 14th) I have been researching child birth and found out that they use fentanyl (a very strong opiate, I used to frequently use) in the epidural.
I have also read that, since it's injected in your spine, not IV, that very little, if any, reaches your central nervous system.
My questions are, would it be safe for me to get an epidural? Would it cause me to get bad cravings afterwards? Do I have other options?
I did a lot of things I'm not proud of when I was actively addicted, I just want to make sure I am the very best mother I can be to this baby girl. That includes not being exposed to things that will trigger my addiction to rear it's ugly head once again.
Thank you!!View Thread

Also, if I have a c-section, I'm pretty much doomed to having to take opiates to relieve the pain, although the doctor also said that, since I'd be in so much pain to start with and probably have a residual tolerance to opiates, it more then likely won't get me high. She also suggested having someone else moderate my dosage if I do get a script of opiates for post-c-section pain. On my own note, I think it would be wise for me to see a counselor/psychiatrist/substance abuse expert while on any opiate medication to help avoid abuse and later relapse. Sometimes it helps to have a 3rd party, who KNOWS addiction and who isn't biased (parents and loved ones who could be moderating your dosage, may give in to giving you more if they see you in pain because they care too much about you to see you in any level of pain). I think hearing from an outside source that you're doing well or getting out of hand will greatly increase the chances of continued recovery.
It's also been noted (in advance) on ALL my medical charts that I am a former opiate addict and that should be enough to make MOST docs reconsider introducing them into my system in an emergency where other drugs and therapies are available.View Thread

I had NO idea who to even bring it up to (the nurses at my OB office, a psychiatrist, substance abuse counselor...)
I have let the nurses (haven't seen a doctor) at my OB office know about my addiction (in detail).
I'm glad I have other options and I'll be sure to put in my birth plan a note about restricting opiates because of prior dependence on them.
Thank you!View Thread


Also, think about looking into a sober living facility for when he gets out of rehab. A lot of them are free and help with job placement *they usually charge a small "sobriety deposit" when you are placed* they only charge you rent once you get a job. It's a great place to transition back into the "normal world" and the frequent drug testing along with not being in a place you used to get high in, helps keep the cravings at bay.
If he goes to a substance abuse treatment center, they usually help with continued care (outpatient, transitional housing, etc) and hopefully he gets the most out of it!
Good luck!! I know how hard it was for my mom when I was actively addicted.
You're in my thoughts and prayers!View Thread



I've been through withdrawal from opiates many times, and because you were on this drug for so long, it's going to take longer to get all of it out of your system. I know, it's extremely unnerving to not be able to get comfortable (get cold, cover up, start sweating, uncover, start freezing, and repeat). I found that, when I was extremely uncomfortable, it helped to take a hot shower with the door open and the shower curtain pulled half open. I think it's the mix of hot and cold, but it provided relief for about half an hour (until the hot water ran out).
Good luck!!View Thread

I'm not a doctor or anything, but it is very likely that your son did incur some level of brain damage from his drug use (speaking from personal experience and things I noticed in other addicts).
I am very sorry for your loss and all the questions you and your family/friends are left with. You are in my thoughts and prayers.View Thread
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