Women and Newborn Drug and Alcohol Service (WANDAS)
The Women and Newborn Drug and Alcohol Service (WANDAS) cares for pregnant women experiencing drug and alcohol issues. The service is based at King Edward Memorial Hospital (external site).
WANDAS will help you work to out the safest way to reduce your use, use safely, stop using, or go on a program during your pregnancy. We can discuss your options and refer you to the appropriate services.
Our support and care can help you and your baby become and stay as healthy as possible during your pregnancy.
Is it safe to use drugs or drink alcohol when pregnant?
No. The safest option for your baby is for you not to take any drugs or drink any alcohol if you are pregnant.
Once your baby is born, he or she is no longer exposed to any medications, drugs or alcohol you may have taken during your pregnancy. This can result in your baby experiencing withdrawal.
Get the best health care for you and your baby
Talking about your drug use is an individual choice, but being open and honest will mean you get the best health care for you and your baby. You might have a number of concerns about being pregnant and there are lots of ways we can work with you to make sure you and your baby stay healthy.
Sometimes pregnant women feel tired and overwhelmed. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. It’s good to have people around who care about you, so you can ask for as much advice as possible.
Our team
The WANDAS team is made up of a number of health professionals, including:
- doctors
- midwives
- social workers
- dietitians
- mental health professionals.
- parent education.
Our services
Coming to WANDAS for care during your pregnancy means you will have access to:
- routine scans and tests
- help with your diet
- social support
- parent education
- psychiatric support
- midwifery support
- referrals to appropriate services, including drug and alcohol treatment services and community support.
WANDAS offers different types of clinics depending on your stage of pregnancy, including:
- a booking clinic, where you will be assessed by a midwife (held on a Wednesday morning)
- a pregnancy (antenatal) clinic (held every Friday morning at the East Wing Clinic)
- postnatal clinics for up to three months after your baby’s birth (held on a Wednesday afternoon).
Who can use our services?
Women can refer themselves to WANDAS or can be referred by their GP, local hospital or through the Next Step Drug and Alcohol Service (external site).
When should I first come to WANDAS?
It is best to come to WANDAS as early as possible so we can assess your situation and commence harm minimisation and harm reduction strategies.
You will be encouraged to start attending appointments in your first trimester (the first 12 weeks of your pregnancy).
Cost
There is no cost for Medicare card holders and for people from countries that have reciprocal healthcare agreements with Australia.
Appointment reminders
Sometimes it can be difficult to remember appointment dates and times but it’s important that you come to the clinic regularly. WANDAS will send you text messages to remind you about your appointments.
More information
Find out more about drug and alcohol use during pregnancy and drug and alcohol withdrawal in babies.
Contact details
Women and Newborn Drug and Alcohol Service (WANDAS)
- Phone: 9340 1582 or 0414 892 753
Acknowledgements
Women and Newborn Drug and Alcohol Service, Women and Newborn Health Service
This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.