ST. LOUIS – Substance use during pregnancy has devastating effects on the health of both mothers and their children during and after pregnancy. To address these challenges, Mercy has introduced a new program, BRAVE (Building Recovery, Advocacy, Validation and Empowerment), as part of its Perinatal Substance Use Clinic.
BRAVE provides a safe, inclusive space where pregnant and postpartum women can access comprehensive medical care, mental health care and social support while working toward a healthier future for themselves and their babies.
“Missouri ranks poorly in maternal mortality, ranking 44 out of 50 states with 32 deaths for every 100,000 births” said Dr. Dan Jackson, a Mercy maternal-fetal medicine and addiction medicine specialist. “According to Missouri’s Pregnancy Associated Mortality Review committee, maternal mental health conditions and substance use disorder are the leading causes of preventable maternal morbidity and mortality. These deaths and the resulting devastating impact on families are preventable.”
BRAVE is designed for women who are pregnant or up to one year after delivery and have substance use concerns. It addresses a range of conditions, including:
- substance use disorders such as dependencies on alcohol, tobacco, amphetamines, cocaine or other substances.
- mental health conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- pregnancy-related health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart or liver problems and fetal conditions, all of which may complicate pregnancy.
"By expanding access to care for maternal mental health and substance use disorder, which frequently overlap, we can improve Missouri’s maternal mortality rate and save our mothers,” Dr. Jackson said. “In addition to saving lives, our goal is to help patients transition to recovery from issues like substance abuse, mental health disorders and other serious challenges so they can achieve their life goals."
The program is made up of a multidisciplinary team that includes experts in maternal-fetal medicine, perinatal psychiatry and substance use, along with dedicated nurses and social workers who guide participants through their recovery journey. The BRAVE program is led by Dr. Jackson and Dr. Kimberly Brandt, a Mercy perinatal psychiatrist and addiction medicine specialist. The BRAVE program offers both in-person and virtual visits to ensure flexible, accessible care.
All health plans are accepted with insurance billed for specialist visits and other care. Self-pay options also are available. Women interested in enrolling can visit mercy.net/BRAVE or call 314-251-1260.
