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

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

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

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

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.

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.