Engagement of substance-using pregnant women in addiction recovery

Abstract

This article reports on a qualitative study examining the experiences and recovery needs of substanceusing pregnant women, with a primary focus on women's engagement by child protection services (CPS) in addiction recovery programs. Current CPS policies and practices have largely failed to engage these women, despite women's stated desire for recovery support during pregnancy. Three core themes related to women's primary need for safety-the need for collaborative relationships with CPS, children as motivators for change, and needed modifications in the social environment-are discussed. Implications for social policy and direct practice in regard to CPS engagement of substance-using pregnant women in recovery programs are examined.