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Substance use by pregnant adolescents
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin, Medical School, Madison.
Clinics in Perinatology
|March 1, 1991
Summary
Adolescent substance use and pregnancy are significant issues. Studies indicate pregnant teens use alcohol and drugs, with self-reports underestimating actual use, highlighting the need for better interventions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Adolescent Medicine
- Substance Abuse Research
Background:
- Adolescent pregnancy and substance use are major public health concerns in the US.
- These issues are linked to broader problem behavior constellations, including early sexual activity.
- While studied independently, substance use among pregnant adolescents requires more systematic investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current understanding of substance use in pregnant adolescents.
- To identify risk factors associated with alcohol and drug use in this population.
- To outline future directions for research and clinical practice.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on adolescent substance use and pregnancy.
- Analysis of self-report and objective testing data on substance use in pregnant adolescents.
- Examination of identified risk profiles for substance use.
Main Results:
- Significant substance use is evident among pregnant adolescents, confirmed by both self-report and objective measures.
- Self-report data alone underestimates the prevalence of substance use.
- Several significant risk factors have been identified for alcohol and drug use.
Conclusions:
- Physician and healthcare provider practices need to adapt to address substance use in pregnant adolescents.
- Family education and support regarding sexuality and substance use are crucial.
- Further research is essential to determine prevalence, improve screening and intervention, and understand long-term effects.