Illicit drug users' experiences of pregnancy. An exploratory study

Abstract

This paper reports on qualitative data from a study of drug-abusing women during pregnancy. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 30 drug-using women focusing on their attitudes to and feelings about pregnancy. The findings do not support stereotypes of pregnant drug users as selfish and irresponsible. The women's accounts are characterized by feelings of anxiety and guilt which are often exacerbated by comments from health professionals and others. Some implications for health care services for drug-using women and their babies are discussed.