Reasons for substance use continuation and discontinuation during pregnancy: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background: Substance use during pregnancy is a major public health concern, stemming from potential physical and psychosocial harms to both the mother and child.

Purpose: To understand women's experiences using substances during pregnancy and the reasons that women continue and/or discontinue using substances.

Methods: Focus groups were conducted with women who attended an early intervention program for pregnant or parenting women with substance use issues.

Results: Women identified that external and internal stressors, feelings of guilt and low-self efficacy, and a lack of understanding of the scientific and medical consequences of substance use contributed to their continued substance use. Conversely, women highlighted the importance of high self-efficacy and the quality of relationships when trying to make positive changes to their substance use during pregnancy.

Conclusions: Recommendations are proposed for easier access to and more comprehensive services. Healthcare professionals and service providers should offer non-judgmental care by building high-quality relationships with pregnant women with substance use issues, to increase these women's self-efficacy and empower them to discontinue substance use.

Keywords: Intervention; Pregnancy; Self-efficacy; Substance use; Women’s health.