Substance Use in Pregnancy: Identifying Stigma and Improving Care

Course overview

The article addresses the pervasive stigma faced by pregnant individuals who use substances, highlighting its detrimental impact on their care and outcomes. It explores how stigma, particularly among marginalized groups, leads to delayed care, isolation, and increased risks for both parent and child. The authors advocate for trauma-informed, harm reduction approaches and emphasize the importance of non-judgmental, supportive care practices. Additionally, the article stresses the need for person-centered, inclusive language to create a more compassionate clinical environment, ultimately aiming to improve health outcomes for pregnant people who use substances.