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Updated: Apr 20, 2026

Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
Published on: August 25, 2014
Psychiatric comorbidity among substance misusing mothers.
Paula Strengell1, Ilona Väisänen, Matti Joukamaa
1Paula Strengell, Medical School, University of Tampere; Department of Psychiatry, Tampere University Hospital , Tampere , Finland.
Psychiatric comorbidity is common in pregnant women with substance misuse. Early diagnosis during pregnancy is crucial for effective treatment and support.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Addiction Medicine
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Substance use disorders frequently co-occur with psychiatric disorders.
- Limited research exists on psychiatric comorbidity in pregnant women with substance misuse.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in pregnant women attending addiction clinics.
- To compare the backgrounds of these mothers with a control group.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of mothers referred to an addiction clinic (n=49).
- Psychiatric diagnoses assessed using ICD-10 and DSM-IV criteria (SCID).
- Comparison group (n=74) completed a postal survey.
Main Results:
- 57% of substance-misusing pregnant women had psychiatric illnesses.
- 40% had substance use-related diagnoses 6-12 months postpartum.
- High number, spectrum, and severity of psychiatric diagnoses were observed.
Conclusions:
- Psychiatric comorbidity is prevalent among substance-misusing mothers.
- These mothers often face difficult social situations requiring varied support.
- Routine psychiatric evaluation during pregnancy is recommended for optimal care.
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