Explain the Concerns and Needs of Reproductive Health in Pregnant Women with Substance Use Disorder

Not paying attention to the needs of pregnant women with substance use disorder increases their vulnerability. The reproductive health needs of this group of women are influenced by culture and society. This study was conducted to explain the needs and concerns of reproductive health in pregnant women with substance use disorder in Iran. This study was qualitative. This study's data collection was performed through in-depth semi-structured interviews with 18 pregnant women with substance use disorder. Data analysis was performed by Granheim&Landmann content analysis.

A total of 1141 codes were extracted from the interviews, which were compared based on content similarity and were organized into four main categories and 13 subcategories. The main categories include: 1- the need for comprehensive support, 2- the challenge of fear and concern, 3- problems during pregnancy, and 4- lost human rights. Pregnant women with substance use disorder in various aspects of reproductive health need health, social, economic, and educational support. There were also a number of concerns, including financial, not quitting smoking, negative labels, and fear of not playing the role of wife.

The analysis results showed that many needs and concerns of pregnant women with substance use disorders in Iran had not been met, so health policymakers and planners should prioritize the needs of this group of women in health programs.