Charissa Patricelli

MD, DABAM, CCFP

Investigator, BC Children's Hospital
Medical Director, Perinatal Addictions, BC Women's Hospital + Health Centre

Women who use substances in pregnancy are an under-studied group that face unique contexts and barriers to services and supports. Left untreated, severe substance use disorders in pregnancy can present significant harms both to mother and baby, including overdose and/or mortality. It is imperative that all women have access to treatments and services that are effective, safe, and acceptable. The goal of our research is to generate evidence to support treatments for pregnant women who use substances, that will allow women with substance use disorders to bond with, and parent their newborns.