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Mathias H, Foster LA, Rushton A. Programs and practices that support pregnant people who use drugs' access to sexual and reproductive health care in Canada: a scoping review. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:72. [PMID: 38254076 PMCID: PMC10804510 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-06225-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnant people who use unregulated drugs (PPWUD) are at high risk of health complications yet experience a range of barriers to sexual and reproductive health care. Given that improving maternal health and access to reproductive health care are key targets underpinning the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), there is an urgent need to improve access to appropriate supports and services for this population. Little is known about what programs and practices exist to support PPWUD's access to sexual and reproductive health care. This scoping review aimed to identify the available literature on these programs and practices in Canada. METHODS A scoping review was conducted using JBI methodology and reported using PRISMA guidelines. Scholarly databases and grey literature sources were searched to identify literature published between 2016-2023 in English or French that discussed, defined, conceptualised, or evaluated programs and practices that support PPWUD's access to sexual and reproductive health care in Canada. Identified literature was screened using Covidence. Data were extracted from included texts, then analysed descriptively. Frequencies and key concepts were reported. RESULTS A total of 71 articles were included, most of which were grey literature. Of the total, 46 unique programs were identified, as well as several useful practices. Most programs were in urban centres in Western Canada, and most programs offered holistic 'wrap-around services.' Several programs delivered these services on-site or as 'drop-in' programs with the support of staff with lived/living experience of substance use. Most frequent program outcomes included keeping parents and children together, improving connection to other services, and reducing substance use harms. Noted helpful practices included non-judgmental care and the use of harm-reduction strategies. CONCLUSIONS Several programs and practices that support PPWUD exist in Canada, though few focus exclusively on sexual and reproductive health. There remain opportunities to improve access to programs, including expanding geographic availability and range of services. The review has clinical application by providing an overview of available programs that may support clinicians in identifying services for PPWUD. Future research should consider client perspectives and experiences of these programs. REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER Open Science Framework https://osf.io/5y64j .
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Mathias
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 11405 87 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada.
| | - Lesley Ann Foster
- Department of Cultural Studies, Queen's University, 99 University Ave, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Ashleigh Rushton
- Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of the Fraser Valley, 45190 Caen Ave, Chilliwack, B.C, V2R 0N3, Canada
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Philbin MM, Parish C, Bergen S, Kerrigan D, Kinnard EN, Reed SE, Cohen MH, Sosanya O, Sheth AN, Adimora AA, Cocohoba J, Goparaju L, Golub ET, Fischl M, Alcaide ML, Metsch LR. A Qualitative Exploration of Women's Interest in Long-Acting Injectable Antiretroviral Therapy Across Six Cities in the Women's Interagency HIV Study: Intersections with Current and Past Injectable Medication and Substance Use. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2021; 35:23-30. [PMID: 33400587 PMCID: PMC7826427 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2020.0164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Medications for antiretroviral therapy (ART) and preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are currently daily pill regimens, which pose barriers to long-term adherence. Long-acting injectable (LAI) modalities have been developed for ART and PrEP, but minimal LAI-focused research has occurred among women. Thus, little is known about how women's history of injection for medical or nonmedical purposes may influence their interest in LAI. We conducted 89 in-depth interviews at 6 sites (New York, NY; Chicago, IL; San Francisco, CA; Atlanta, GA; Chapel Hill, NC; Washington, DC) of the Women's Interagency HIV study. Interviews occurred with women living with HIV (n = 59) and HIV-negative women (n = 30) from November 2017 to October 2018. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic content analysis. Women's prior experiences with injections occurred primarily through substance use, physical comorbidities, birth control, or flu vaccines. Four primary categories of women emerged; those who (1) received episodic injections and had few LAI-related concerns; (2) required frequent injections and would refuse additional injections; (3) had a history of injection drug use, of whom some feared LAI might trigger a recurrence, while others had few LAI-related concerns; and (4) were currently injecting drugs and had few LAI-related concerns. Most women with a history of injectable medication would prefer LAI, but those with other frequent injections and history of injection drug use might not. Future research needs to address injection-related concerns, and develop patient-centered approaches to help providers best identify which women could benefit from LAI use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan M. Philbin
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
- Address correspondence to: Morgan M. Philbin, PhD, MHS, Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 722 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Carrigan Parish
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sadie Bergen
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Deanna Kerrigan
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health at George Washington University, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Elizabeth N. Kinnard
- Division of Epidemiology, UC Berkeley School of Public Health, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Sarah E. Reed
- Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Mardge H. Cohen
- Department of Medicine, John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Oluwakemi Sosanya
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Anandi N. Sheth
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Adaora A. Adimora
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jennifer Cocohoba
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of California at San Francisco School of Pharmacy, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Lakshmi Goparaju
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Elizabeth T. Golub
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Margaret Fischl
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Maria L. Alcaide
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Lisa R. Metsch
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
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Mburu G, Ayon S, Mahinda S, Kaveh K. Determinants of Women's Drug Use During Pregnancy: Perspectives from a Qualitative Study. Matern Child Health J 2020; 24:1170-1178. [PMID: 32754861 PMCID: PMC7419458 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-020-02910-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Drug use during pregnancy can have negative effects on maternal and child health. However, there is a dearth of data regarding drug use among pregnant women in Kenya, where illicit drug use is on the rise. In this paper, we report factors influencing women's decisions to use drugs during pregnancy. METHODS In 2015, we conducted in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 45 women who inject drugs and five key stakeholders involved in provision of services to people who use drugs in coastal Kenya. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted to draw out themes related to key determinants of drug use during pregnancy. RESULTS Four key themes emerged outlining determinants of drug use during pregnancy: (i) the use of drugs to cope with the stress of unexpected pregnancy, (ii) the continued drug use during pregnancy to manage withdrawal, (iii) the dual effect of pregnancy on drug use either as a facilitator or as a moderator of drug use, and (iv) the role of male intimate partner in influencing women's drug use during pregnancy. CONCLUSION Our paper reports women's drug use during pregnancy and the factors influencing this phenomenon. To safeguard the health and well-being of pregnant women and their unborn children, there is a need for education and awareness raising, implementing couple-based harm reduction approaches to leverage on positive male influences, improving availability of drug treatment, and provision of family planning interventions for women who use drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gitau Mburu
- Centre for Global Health Policy, University of Sussex, Falmer, UK.
| | | | | | - Khoshnood Kaveh
- School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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Mravčík V, Nechanská B, Gabrhelík R, Handal M, Mahic M, Skurtveit S. Socioeconomic characteristics of women with substance use disorder during pregnancy and neonatal outcomes in their newborns: A national registry study from the Czech Republic. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 209:107933. [PMID: 32109712 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.107933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maternal substance use can pose a risk to the fetal health. We studied the background characteristics of women with substance use disorders (SUDs) and selected neonatal outcomes in their children. MATERIAL AND METHODS A database-linkage study was performed. The sample consisted of pregnant women with a SUD during pregnancy (ICD-10 diagnosis F10-F19 except F17, n = 1710), women not diagnosed with a SUD (n = 1,511,310) in Czechia in 2000-2014, and their children. The monitored neonatal outcomes were gestational age, birth weight, preterm birth, and small-for-gestational age (SGA). Binary logistic regression adjusted for age, marital status, education, concurrent substance use, and prenatal care was performed. RESULTS Women with illicit SUDs were younger, more often unmarried, with a lower level of education, a higher abortion rate, a higher smoking rate, and lower compliance to prenatal care than women with a SUD related to alcohol, or sedatives and hypnotics (SH). Women with a SUD had worse socioeconomic situations, poorer pregnancy care, and worse neonatal outcomes than women without a SUD. After adjustment, we found no difference in SGA between the illicit SUD groups and the alcohol and the SH groups. The newborns from all SUD groups had a higher risk of SGA when compared to women without a SUD. However after adjustment, the difference remained significant just in the alcohol group (OR = 1.9, 95 % CI = 1.4-2.6). CONCLUSION Mother's SUD during pregnancy increased risk of fetal growth restriction as measured by SGA. The role of maternal socioeconomic and lifestyle factors for the risk of SGA was substantial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktor Mravčík
- Department of Addictology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic; National Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Addiction, Office of the Government, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Blanka Nechanská
- Department of Addictology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic; Institute of Health Information and Statistics of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Roman Gabrhelík
- Department of Addictology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Marte Handal
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Milada Mahic
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Svetlana Skurtveit
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway; Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research at the University of Oslo, Norway
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Ayon S, Jeneby F, Hamid F, Badhrus A, Abdulrahman T, Mburu G. Developing integrated community-based HIV prevention, harm reduction, and sexual and reproductive health services for women who inject drugs. Reprod Health 2019; 16:59. [PMID: 31138238 PMCID: PMC6538559 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-019-0711-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite being a priority population for HIV prevention and harm reduction programs, the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) needs of women who inject drugs are being overlooked. Furthermore, models for providing integrated SRH, HIV, and harm reduction services for women who inject drugs are rare. This article reports the development of community-based outreach services that integrated family planning and other SRH interventions with HIV and harm reduction services for this population in coastal Kenya. METHODS Using mixed-methods implementation research, a qualitative baseline needs assessment was conducted with women who inject drugs and harm reduction stakeholders using a combination of in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The qualitative data from participants was subjected to thematic analysis using Nvivo. Based on the baseline needs assessment, integration of SRH into existing HIV and harm reduction services was implemented. After two years of implementation, an evaluation of the program was conducted using a combination of qualitative interviews and review of quantitative service delivery records and other program documents. The process, impacts, and challenges of integrating SRH into a community-based HIV prevention and harm reduction program were identified. RESULTS This article highlights: 1) low baseline utilization of family planning services among women who inject drugs, 2) improved utilization and high acceptability of outreach-based provision of SRH services including contraception among this population, 3) importance of training, capacity strengthening, technical support and financial resourcing of community-based organizations to integrate SRH into HIV prevention and harm reduction services, and 4) the value of beneficiary involvement, advocacy, and collaboration with other partners in the planning, designing and implementing of SRH interventions for women who inject drugs. CONCLUSIONS Women who inject drugs in this study had low utilization of family planning and other SRH services, which can be improved through the integration of contraceptive and other SRH interventions into existing outreach-based HIV prevention and harm reduction programs. This integration is acceptable to women who inject drugs, and is programmatically feasible. For successful integration, a rights-based beneficiary involvement, coupled with sustainable technical and financial capacity strengthening at the community level is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fatma Jeneby
- Muslim Education and Welfare Association, Mombasa, Kenya
| | | | | | | | - Gitau Mburu
- Division of Health Research, University of Lancaster, Lancaster, LA1 4YW, UK. .,Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland.
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Mburu G, Ndimbii J, Ayon S, Mlewa O, Mbizvo M, Kihara C, Ragi A. Contraceptive Use Among Women Who Inject Drugs: Motivators, Barriers, and Unmet Needs. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/23293691.2018.1463737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gitau Mburu
- Division of Health Research, University of Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | - Cecilia Kihara
- International HIV/AIDS Alliance, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Allan Ragi
- Kenya AIDS NGO Consortium, Nairobi, Kenya
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Uusküla A, Raag M, Vorobjov S, Jarlais DD. Another frontier for harm reduction: contraceptive needs of females who inject drugs in Estonia, a cross-sectional study. Harm Reduct J 2018; 15:10. [PMID: 29506538 PMCID: PMC5838942 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-018-0215-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Despite increasing contraceptive availability, unintended pregnancy remains a global problem. Developing strategies to reverse this trend and increasing occurrence of withdrawal syndrome among newborn children of females currently injecting drugs warrants special attention. The knowledge base on the uptake of effective contraception among females who inject drugs (FWID) is scant. We aimed to examine the prevalence of and factors associated with the use of non-condom contraceptives among sexually active FWID with the focus on effective contraception. Methods In a series of cross-sectional studies (2007–2013), 265 current FWID were recruited through respondent-driven sampling (RDS), interviewed, and tested for HIV. RDS weights were used to estimate the prevalence of effective contraception (hormonal contraception, intrauterine device, sterilization) use in the last 6 months. Results Of the sexually active women with main partners (n = 196) 4.8% (95% CI 2.3–9.7) were using effective contraception, 52.7% (95% CI 42.5–62.7) less-effective or no contraception. 42.5% (95% CI 32.7–52.9) relied on condoms for contraception. The odds for using effective contraception were higher among women with > 10 years of education (OR 7.29, 95% CI 1.4–38.8). None of the women lacking health insurance (n = 84) were using effective contraception. Conclusions The very low coverage with effective contraception highlights the need to improve contraceptive services for FWID. Reproductive health service including contraception should be considered essential components of harm reduction and of comprehensive prevention and care for HIV among persons who use drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneli Uusküla
- Department of Family medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, 50411, Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Mait Raag
- Department of Family medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Sigrid Vorobjov
- Infectious Diseases and Drug Monitoring Department, National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Don Des Jarlais
- Department of Psychiatry, The Baron Edmond de Rothschild Chemical Dependency Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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Clergue-Duval V, Robin S, Fortias M, Dupuy G, Badin-de-Montjoye B, Vorspan F. Use and knowledge of contraceptive methods by patients in two substance use disorders treatment centers in Paris. Harm Reduct J 2017; 14:54. [PMID: 28778212 PMCID: PMC5545002 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-017-0181-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Studies on contraceptive use by patients with substance use disorders (SUD) show a concerning low use of contraception. Mainly conducted in USA, they could be irrelevant to patients attending European SUD treatment centers, especially since these studies mostly investigate women suffering from social exclusion, severe material deprivation andopiates use with frequent high-risk drug use and sexual behaviors including sex trade, frequently not currently attending treatment centers. The purpose of this study is to describe contraceptive use by patients, both male and female, since contraception can not only be considered as a female problem, with severe SUD in two free clinics in Paris, France. Methods An anonymous self-report questionnaire was distributed to literate patients followed in two generalist substance use disorders treatment centers in hospitals of Paris, France: Espace Murger and Centre Cassini, during 5 weeks between February and March 2016. Results Out of the 78 respondents (with an age mean 40.7 years, in which women are represented as 48.1%, and 29.7% of them have children), 53 have had at least one sexual partner in the last 6 months. Contraception was “always” used by 55.3% of sexually active patients, “sometimes” by 19.1%, and “not” used by 25.5%. Male condoms were the main contraceptive method. The use of intrauterine devices was low, contrarily to what is observed in the French general population. However, the knowledge of contraceptive methods was common. Conclusions In this population, with a high prevalence of at risk sexual behavior, the use of contraceptive methods is lower than in French general population. During standard care for SUD, contraception and desire to be a parent should be discussed and patients empowered to make their own choices. Lack of knowledge does not seem to be a hindrance to the use of contraception, but other sociological, psychological, or medical factors may limit contraceptive access and long-term use, especially for the long-acting reversible contraception methods. It is necessary to further develop this reflection by discussing the individual contraceptive choices with the patients themselves to clarify the nature of these constraints and maybe provide several contraceptive methods within the SUD care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Suzanne Robin
- Master Genre, Politique et Sexualité, Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Science Sociale, Paris, France
| | - Maeva Fortias
- CSAPA Espace Murger, Service de Médecine Addictologique, Hôpital Fernand Widal, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Gaël Dupuy
- CSAPA Espace Murger, Service de Médecine Addictologique, Hôpital Fernand Widal, APHP, Paris, France
| | | | - Florence Vorspan
- Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France.,CSAPA Espace Murger, Service de Médecine Addictologique, Hôpital Fernand Widal, APHP, Paris, France
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Contraceptive use and method choice among women with opioid and other substance use disorders: A systematic review. Prev Med 2015; 80:23-31. [PMID: 25900803 PMCID: PMC4842019 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2015.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2015] [Revised: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 04/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
AIM To systematically review the literature on contraceptive use by women with opioid and other substance use disorders in order to estimate overall contraceptive use and to examine method choice given the alarmingly high rate of unintended pregnancy in this population. METHOD Pubmed (1948-2014) and PsycINFO (1806-2014) databases were searched for peer-reviewed journal articles using a systematic search strategy. Only articles published in English and reporting contraceptive use within samples of women with opioid and other substance use disorders were eligible for inclusion. RESULTS Out of 580 abstracts reviewed, 105 articles were given a full-text review, and 24 studies met the inclusion criteria. The majority (51%) of women in these studies reported using opioids, with much smaller percentages reporting alcohol and cocaine use. Across studies, contraceptive prevalence ranged widely, from 6%-77%, with a median of 55%. Results from a small subset of studies (N=6) suggest that women with opioid and other substance use disorders used contraception less often than non-drug-using comparison populations (56% vs. 81%, respectively). Regarding method choice, condoms were the most prevalent method, accounting for a median of 62% of contraceptives used, while use of more effective methods, especially implants and intrauterine devices (IUDs), was far less prevalent 8%. CONCLUSIONS Women with opioid and other substance use disorders have an unmet need for contraception, especially for the most effective methods. Offering contraception services in conjunction with substance use treatment and promoting use of more effective methods could help meet this need and reduce unintended pregnancy in this population.
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Schwartz SR, Baral S. Fertility-related research needs among women at the margins. REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH MATTERS 2015; 23:30-46. [PMID: 26278831 DOI: 10.1016/j.rhm.2015.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Revised: 05/29/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility-related research encompasses fertility intentions, preconception care, research amongst pregnant women, and post-partum outcomes of mothers and children. However, some women remain under-represented within this domain of study. Women frequently missing within fertility-related research include those who are already the most vulnerable to health disparities, including female sex workers, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender women, women living with HIV, and women who use drugs. Yet characterization of the needs of these women is important, given their unique fertility-related concerns, including risks and barriers to care emanating from social stigmas and discrimination. This synthesis provides an overview of fertility-related evidence, highlighting where there are clear research gaps among marginalized women and the potential implications of these data shortfalls. Overall, research among marginalized women to date has addressed pregnancy prevention and in some cases fertility intentions, but the majority of studies have focused on post-conception pregnancy safety and the well-being of the child. However, among female sex workers specifically, data on pregnancy safety and the well-being of the child are largely unavailable. Within each marginalized group, preconception care and effectiveness of conception methods are consistently understudied. Ultimately, the absence of epidemiologic, clinical and programmatic evidence limits the availability and quality of reproductive health services for all women and prevents social action to address these gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheree R Schwartz
- Assistant Scientist, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Stefan Baral
- Associate Professor, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Iversen J, Page K, Madden A, Maher L. HIV, HCV, and Health-Related Harms Among Women Who Inject Drugs: Implications for Prevention and Treatment. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2015; 69 Suppl 2:S176-81. [PMID: 25978485 PMCID: PMC4505917 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although an estimated 3.5 million women inject drugs globally, women are outnumbered 4 to one by men who inject drugs and are often ignored or overlooked in the development and delivery of prevention and treatment services for this population. This study aimed to identify key comorbidities prevalent among women who inject drugs (WWID), consider factors that contribute to vulnerability of this population, and examine implications for prevention and treatment. METHODS The literature was reviewed to examine the specific challenges and needs of WWID. We searched health-related bibliographic databases and grey literature to identify studies conducted among WWID and studies conducted among people who inject drugs (PWID), where results were disaggregated by gender and policies/guidelines/reports relevant to WWID. RESULTS WWID face a range of unique, gender-specific, and often additional challenges and barriers. The lack of a targeted focus on WWID by prevention and treatment services and harm-reduction programs increases women's vulnerability to a range of health-related harms, including blood-borne viral and sexually transmitted infections, injection-related injuries, mental health issues, physical and sexual violence, poor sexual and reproductive health, issues in relation to childbearing and child care, and pervasive stigma and discrimination. CONCLUSIONS There is a need to improve the collection and reporting of gender-disaggregated data on prevalence of key infections and prevention and treatment service access and program coverage. Women-focussed services and integrating gender equity and human rights into the harm-reduction programming will be a prerequisite if improvements in the health, safety, and well-being of this often invisible and highly vulnerable population are to be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kimberly Page
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics & Preventive Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, University of New Mexico, USA
| | - Annie Madden
- Australian Injecting and Illicit Drug Users League (AIVL)
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Zelena D. The janus face of stress on reproduction: from health to disease. Int J Endocrinol 2015; 2015:458129. [PMID: 25945091 PMCID: PMC4405284 DOI: 10.1155/2015/458129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Revised: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Parenthood is a fundamental feature of all known life. However, infertility has been recognized as a public health issue worldwide. But even when the offspring are conceived, in utero problems can lead to immediate (abortion), early (birth), and late (adulthood) consequences. One of the most studied factors is stress. However, stress response is, per se, of adaptive nature allowing the organism to cope with challenges. Stressors lead to deterioration if one is faced with too long lasting, too many, and seemingly unsolvable situations. In stress adaptation the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenocortical axis and the resulting glucocorticoid elevation are one of the most important mechanisms. At cellular level stress can be defined as an unbalance between production of free radicals and antioxidant defenses. Oxidative stress is widely accepted as an important pathogenic mechanism in different diseases including infertility. On the other hand, the goal of free radical production is to protect the cells from infectious entities. This review aims to summarize the negative and positive influence of stress on reproduction as a process leading to healthy progeny. Special emphasis was given to the balance at the level of the organism and cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dóra Zelena
- Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Szigony 43, Budapest 1083, Hungary
- *Dóra Zelena:
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Duff P, Shoveller J, Feng C, Ogilvie G, Montaner J, Shannon K. Pregnancy intentions among female sex workers: recognising their rights and wants as mothers. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 41:102-8. [PMID: 25056256 DOI: 10.1136/jfprhc-2012-100532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To better understand the prevalence and correlates of pregnancy intentions among female sex workers (FSWs). DESIGN Cross-sectional analysis using data from an open prospective cohort of street and off-street FSWs in Vancouver, Canada, in partnership with local sex work and community agencies. METHODS FSWs were recruited through outreach to street and off-street locations (e.g. massage parlours, micro-brothels) and completed interviewer-administered questionnaires and HIV/sexually transmitted infection testing. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate correlates of pregnancy intention, based on a 'yes' or 'no' response to the question "Are you planning on have any (any more) children in the future?". RESULTS Of the 510 women, 394 (77.3%) reported prior pregnancy, with 140 (27.5%) of the entire sample reporting positive pregnancy intentions. Regarding ethnicity, 35.3% were Caucasian and 26.3% were Asian/visible minority, with no differences in pregnancy intention by ethnicity or HIV status; 38.4% reported Canadian Aboriginal ancestry. In our final multivariable model, servicing clients in formal indoor settings, inconsistent condom use by clients, younger age, and intimate partner violence (IPV) were associated with pregnancy intention. CONCLUSIONS FSWs may have pregnancy intention levels similar to that of women in other occupations. Policy changes are needed to improve FSWs' access to integrated HIV and reproductive health services and harm reduction services, particularly for FSWs experiencing IPV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Putu Duff
- Research Assistant and PhD Candidate, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver and School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jeannie Shoveller
- Professor, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Cindy Feng
- Assistant Professor, School of Public Health, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Gina Ogilvie
- Associate Director of the Division of STI/HIV Prevention, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Julio Montaner
- Director, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver and Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kate Shannon
- Associate Professor and Director of the Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver; School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver; and Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Behavioral effects of perinatal opioid exposure. Life Sci 2014; 104:1-8. [PMID: 24746901 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2014.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2013] [Revised: 04/01/2014] [Accepted: 04/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Opioids are among the world's oldest known drugs used mostly for pain relief, but recreational use is also widespread. A particularly important problem is opioid exposure in females, as their offspring can also be affected. Adverse intrauterine and postnatal environments can affect offspring development and may lead to various disabilities later in life. It is clear that repetitive painful experiences, such as randomly occurring invasive procedures during neonatal intensive care, can permanently alter neuronal and synaptic organization and therefore later behavior. At the same time, analgesic drugs can also be harmful, inducing neuronal apoptosis or withdrawal symptoms in the neonate and behavioral alterations in adulthood. Hence, risk-benefit ratios should be taken into consideration when pain relief is required during pregnancy or in neonates. Recreational use of opioids can also alter many aspects of life. Intrauterine opioid exposure has many toxic effects, inducing poor pregnancy outcomes due to underdevelopment, but it is believed that later negative consequences are more related to environmental factors such as a chaotic lifestyle and inadequate prenatal care. One of the crucial components is maternal care, which changes profoundly in addicted mothers. In substance-dependent mothers, pre- and postnatal care has special importance, and controlled treatment with a synthetic opioid (e.g., methadone) could be beneficial. We aimed to summarize and compare human and rodent data, as it is important to close the gap between scientific knowledge and societal policies. Special emphasis is given to gender differences in the sensitivity of offspring to perinatal opioid exposure.
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Olsen A, Banwell C, Madden A. Contraception, punishment and women who use drugs. BMC Womens Health 2014; 14:5. [PMID: 24405890 PMCID: PMC3893510 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6874-14-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Accepted: 12/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In light of the recent debate on the use of financial incentives to promote long-acting contraception and sterilisation among women who use illicit drugs we discuss attitudes to contraception, pregnancy and parenting among Australian women who inject drugs. METHODS Qualitative interviews were conducted with 90 women of reproductive age about contraceptive use, preferences, reproductive histories, attitudes to and experiences of parenting. All women were either currently, or had previously injected drugs. The in-depth, semi-structured interviews were compared and contrasted for themes relating to drug use, contraception, pregnancy and parenting. RESULTS Participants aspired to control their fertility, expressed individual contraceptive preferences and concerns for their children (both born and unborn). Most had tried a number of contraceptive methods interspersed by periods of non-use related to experiences of side-effects, being single or abstinent, believing that they were infertile and trying to conceive. Attitudes varied from woman to woman and in the same individual over their life course. Some believed that they were not likely to be capable, but most aspired to be successful mothers. CONCLUSIONS Women's drug use should not automatically be associated with an inability to make informed health care choices or to care for children. Evidence suggests that women who use drugs do not need to be paid to limit or end their fertility. Rather, programs that aim to reduce barriers to obtaining free, non-discriminating reproductive advice and parenting assistance would better utilise women's agency to improve their own reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Olsen
- The Kirby Institute, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Cathy Banwell
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Annie Madden
- The Australian Injecting and Illicit Drug Users League (AIVL), Canberra, Australia
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Abstract
Maternity for opiate users in Vietnam is challenging due to the criminalization of drug use, stigmatization, and poor specialist knowledge among health providers. This article outlines action research conducted among Vietnamese women who had experienced pregnancy while opiate-dependent. Misguided fears that their baby would be a “monstrosity” drove some women to seek out abortion. For those who chose to continue with their pregnancy, communication with health professionals was poor and misinformation concerning advised maternal practices and newborn care was common. Often women made intuitive decisions; few attempted to go “cold turkey” and withdrew suddenly from opiates while pregnant, and most new mothers chose to breastfeed—a healthy choice—despite being advised against this. The study revealed the importance of support provided outside of state services and culminated in new information for female drug users and training materials for peer counselors. The participatory process by which these outputs were developed is outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna White
- Independent Researcher, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Centre for Research in Anthropology, Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Pauline Oosterhoff
- Medical Committee Netherlands–Vietnam, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Royal Tropical Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Duff P, Shoveller J, Zhang R, Alexson D, Montaner JSG, Shannon K. High lifetime pregnancy and low contraceptive usage among sex workers who use drugs- an unmet reproductive health need. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2011; 11:61. [PMID: 21851622 PMCID: PMC3175202 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2393-11-61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2011] [Accepted: 08/18/2011] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The objective of this study was to describe levels of pregnancy and contraceptive usage among a cohort of street-based female sex workers (FSWs) in Vancouver. Methods The study sample was obtained from a community-based prospective cohort study (2006-2008) of 211 women in street-based sex work who use drugs, 176 of whom had reported at least one prior pregnancy. Descriptive statistics were used to estimate lifetime pregnancy prevalence, pregnancy outcomes (miscarriage, abortion, adoption, child apprehension, child custody), and contraceptive usage. In secondary analyses, associations between contraceptive usage, individual and interpersonal risk factors and high number of lifetime pregnancies (defined as greater than the sample mean of 4) were examined. Results Among our sample, 84% reported a prior pregnancy, with a mean of 4 lifetime pregnancies (median = 3; IQR: 2-5). The median age of women reporting 5+ pregnancies was 38 years old [interquartile range (IQR): 25.0-39.0] compared to 34 years [IQR: 25.0-39.0] among women reporting 4 or fewer prior pregnancies. 45% were Caucasian and 47% were of Aboriginal ancestry. We observed high rates of previous abortion (median = 1;IQR:1-3), apprehension (median = 2; IQR:1-4) and adoption (median = 1; IQR:1-2) among FSWs who reported prior pregnancy. The use of hormonal and insertive contraceptives was limited. In bivariate analysis, tubal ligation (OR = 2.49; [95%CI = 1.14-5.45]), and permanent contraceptives (e.g., tubal ligation and hysterectomy) (OR = 2.76; [95%CI = 1.36-5.59]) were both significantly associated with having five or more pregnancies. Conclusion These findings demonstrate high levels of unwanted pregnancy in the context of low utilization of effective contraceptives and suggest a need to improve the accessibility and utilization of reproductive health services, including family planning, which are appropriately targeted and tailored for FSWs in Vancouver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Putu Duff
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
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Olsen A, Banwell C, Dance P. Internal or Infernal Devices: Experiences of Contraception Among Australian Women Living With Hepatitis C. Health Care Women Int 2009; 30:456-74. [DOI: 10.1080/07399330902797591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Peles E, Adelson M. Gender differences and pregnant women in a methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) clinic. J Addict Dis 2007; 25:39-45. [PMID: 16785218 DOI: 10.1300/j069v25n02_06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
We prospectively compared gender outcome among 470 MMT patients admitted between June 1993 and Dec 2002. Urine samples were analyzed for drug abuse after one month and after one year. On admission females 131(27.9%) were significantly younger (34.5 +/-7.5 years) than males 339(72.1%) (37.3 +/- 8.3 years) (ANOVA; F = 11, p = 0.001) and had significantly higher cocaine abuse (20% vs. 11.3%) (Fisher's Exact Test, p = 0.02). After one year, groups had: (a) similar retention in treatment (76.3%-females, 72.6%-males), (b) stop in opiate abuse (65%-females, 65.3%-males), (c) a net decrease in cocaine abuse (% positive that became negative minus % negative that became positive) (68.0%-females, 51.6%-males). Females who were admitted to treatment while pregnant (n = 45) were significantly younger (31.5 +/-5.4 years) compared to 86 non-pregnant (36.1 +/- 7.9, ANOVA F = 12.1, p = 0.001). We concluded that compared to males, females started MMT younger and had a higher proportion of cocaine abuse even though females' outcome were similar to males'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Einat Peles
- Clinic for Drug Abuse, Treatment & Research, Tel-Aviv Elias Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel.
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