Public Health Bradford has released a short film titled Maternal Health and Substance Use: Real-Life Perspectives, produced by My Living Well. The film tells the powerful and deeply personal stories of women affected by alcohol and drug use during pregnancy, and how those experiences have impacted their babies’ health and development. Through these honest accounts, the film brings attention to a growing concern seen by midwives and health visitors in Bradford, who report an increase in substance use among expectant mothers.

The film highlights how alcohol and drugs can affect a baby before birth, leading to complications such as premature delivery, developmental delays, and long-term learning and emotional challenges. The message from healthcare professionals in the film is clear: there is no safe amount or type of alcohol or drug use during pregnancy. At its core, the film is not about blame but about compassion and support, encouraging open conversations with midwives and health professionals who are there to help without judgment.

Maternal Health and Substance Use: Real-Life Perspectives was created as part of the Every Baby Matters initiative, a collaboration of health professionals committed to protecting and supporting mothers and babies. The film also points viewers toward local and online support services such as Bradford Maternity Services (0800 0086074), New Vision Bradford (01274 296023), and DrinkCoach, which offers free online coaching for those looking to reduce or stop drinking.

Find more from My Living Well (UK, October 2025)