Surviving violence: Pregnancy and drug use

In this exploratory study of pregnant drug users who have experienced one o r more violent events (physical/sexual or emotional) while pregnant, the au thors detail how drug use is both a survival strategy and a source of vulne rability to violence. Using a qualitative methodology, 126 women were inter viewed who were or had recently been pregnant (within six months postpartum ) and had used marijuana, crack, cocaine, or heroin singly or in combinatio n (including alcohol with one or more of the above). Data concerning demogr aphics, family, relationships, reproductive, drug use and Violence historie s were collected with a structured questionnaire. Of the 126 interviewees, 79% (100) were selected on the basis of their Violent experiences during pr egnancy for an in-depth interview that focused on their drug use and violen ce histories. The authors detail the ways in which women's drug use was a f orm of recreation, as well as a coping and survival strategy. Drug use also caused them serious problems. Women were demonized for using drugs while p regnant but not given feasible or reasonable alternatives.