Surviving Violence: Pregnancy and Drug Use

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