Many women with Substance Use Disorder may have experienced Adverse Childhood Experiences as they were growing up. Understanding the remarkable impact these experiences have, that lasts a lifetime, leads both mother and caregiver to a deeper acceptance of self. Becoming informed of these traumas, provides a basis for empathetic and supportive care of self. Healthcare providers have historically taken the view that substance use disorder is moral weakness instead of a brain chemistry disease. Stigma is therefore placed on a woman by others as well as by herself, particularly during pregnancy, and is a primary reason women hesitate to access care. Strategies and messages to reduce stigma and increase self empowerment will be addressed.