AUGUSTA — Some Maine infants inherit something much worse than their father’s nose or their grandparent’s hairline. They are born carrying their mother’s addictions to drugs and alcohol – but it doesn’t have to be this way.

A new statewide program called the Maine Mothers Network will help pregnant and parenting women build a substance-free future for themselves and their children.

“We are excited about this partnership and look forward to providing this vital service,” C&C CEO Lynn Duby said. “This comprehensive program will help mothers and children and ensure Maine’s future … The network will give Maine women support and resources to help them build healthy lives for themselves, their families and their communities.”

For many expecting mothers, pregnancy is a time of promise and hope for the future. For some women who use drugs and alcohol, pregnancy can be a powerful force for change in order to give their baby a healthy start. Yet breaking free of substances is mentally and physically difficult.

Peter Wohl, Crisis & Counseling Centers’ director of outpatient services, said that in addition to the physical challenges of withdrawal, many mothers who are addicted to drugs or alcohol face tremendous stigma and other social obstacles.

In addition, many women are in close contact with child protective services or live in fear of triggering a systemic response, which could result in the loss of their child or children, Wohl said. And in some cases a woman’s significant other plays an important role in the recovery process. “Some partners may object to a woman getting clean because it means giving up control,” Wohl said.

According to Wohl there’s an enormous need for a Women’s Substance Abuse Case Management program in the state. “We are seeing a huge bubble in the population of 18- to 35-year-olds addicted to opioids and these are the prime child rearing years,” he said, adding that Maine ranks near top for babies born addicted to opioids.

According to the Department of Health and Human Services, 779 “drug affected babies” were born in Maine in 2012 alone. Many times these newborns immediately go through withdrawal symptoms just as an adult would with accompanying cravings, tremors and seizures. In addition, many have problems feeding and may have poor gag reflexes, digestive issues and severe emotional and behavioral health needs.

Studies have shown that an infant born to a mother who has used alcohol is more likely to experience birth defects to his or her organs. Many experience withdrawal symptoms and exhibit learning or behavioral health disabilities that may last a lifetime.

The program will provide advocacy, treatment and support for women who are pregnant or have children up to five years old.

Services available include trauma screening, coordination and advocacy, parenting groups and treatment groups.

Peer services will also be incorporated as an integral part of the intervention with peer-recovery coaches allowing for transition to natural supports within the community.

Case managers will reach out to a wide range of agencies and constituency groups including service providers, shelters and substance abuse treatment programs. Women can also contact the Statewide Referral Line at 1-800-244-6431 directly to schedule an appointment.

Women who are currently pregnant or have children up to five years old are eligible.

The consortium includes Aroostook Mental Health Services, Crisis and Counseling, Day One, Tri-County Mental Health Services and Wellspring.