Interpersonal trauma, substance misuse and pregnancy
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Interpersonal trauma, substance misuse and pregnancy - A phenomenological exploration of pregnant women and midwives in Scotland
IRAS ID
178428
Contact name
Naomi Waddell
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 4 months, 8 days
Research summary
The misuse of drugs and alcohol is disproportionately high in Scotland and costly to society. Almost one third of individuals requiring assistance for drug use in Scotland from 2010-2011 were female and most were of childbearing age. Violence and abuse experienced by women and children has unequivocal consequences for physical and mental wellbeing and is recognised as being strongly linked with substance misuse. There is very little published research which looks specifically at any links between negative life experiences and substance misuse in pregnant women or examines what their journey through pregnancy and into motherhood is like. UK Midwives education and practice is unique but there is very little published research that explores Midwives experiences and perceptions of supporting pregnant substance misusers. A “Life History Calendar” will be completed with pregnant women who have a history of substance misuse. This will allow us to record the use of drugs/alcohol and any negative life events experienced (eg physical, emotional abuse, domestic violence). This will be followed by an interview where women will be asked about their drug/alcohol use, negative life experiences and how they think these have affected their life. Interviews will be carried out with Midwives where they will be asked about their experiences and perceptions of supporting pregnant women who misuse substances.
REC name
South East Scotland REC 01
REC reference
15/SS/0086
Date of REC Opinion
18 Jun 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion