Your recent article about the impact of the opioid epidemic on children does shed light on the worrisome consequences of opioid addiction during pregnancy (“DA discusses efforts to treat area’s drug-addicted babies,’’ Metro, Nov. 18). However, we do not think that the article stresses enough the fact that stigmatization contributes to a pregnant woman’s reticence to come forward and seek help that might reduce neonatal abstinence syndrome. Recognizing that substance use disorder is a medical affliction and understanding that people from all walks of life are affected are both critical to encouraging those with this disorder to seek care.

Women with substance use disorder need compassionate treatment and support, not stigma and victimization, across the care continuum, including in their homes and communities.

Access to effective maintenance-assisted treatment, including during pregnancy, is essential for women living with opioid addiction. And although neonatal abstinence syndrome is certainly tragic, it is also treatable and reversible. With consistent, quality care, women and their children can live healthy lives.

Dr. James S. Gessner

President, Massachusetts Medical Society

Dr. Maryanne Bombaugh

Chairwoman, Massachusetts section of the

American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Waltham