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The relationship between interpersonal trauma and substance misuse in pregnancy – a narrative review of the literature

Waddell, Naomi; Karatzias, Thanos

Authors

Naomi Waddell



Abstract

Background
There is a strong body of evidence supporting associations between interpersonal trauma (IPT) and substance use; however, this tends to focus on associations between childhood trauma and substance use in non-pregnant populations. Neonatal and obstetric outcomes are poorer among pregnant women with problematic substance use, yet few studies have explored IPT as a possible mechanism underlying their use of substances.

Aim
To explore the literature regarding the relationship between IPT and substance misuse among pregnant women.

Method
A systematic search of relevant databases was conducted and a narrative review of the literature was undertaken. Titles, abstracts and full articles were screened against inclusion criteria. Data were extracted and quality assessed.

Findings
A total of 15 studies were identified that suggested associations between negative life events and substance misuse in pregnant women/new mothers.

Conclusions
Although a link between IPT and substance misuse is suggested, this review has highlighted a number of important gaps in the literature that warrant further investigation. These include a paucity of UK-based studies, and a lack of research that fully explores possible associations between IPT and substance use in pregnant women. Moreover, research to date has employed quantitative methodology.

Citation

Waddell, N., & Karatzias, T. (2019). The relationship between interpersonal trauma and substance misuse in pregnancy – a narrative review of the literature. British Journal of Midwifery, 27(9), 578-588. https://doi.org/10.12968/bjom.2019.27.9.578

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Apr 23, 2019
Online Publication Date Sep 6, 2019
Publication Date Sep 2, 2019
Deposit Date May 31, 2019
Publicly Available Date Mar 3, 2020
Journal British Journal of Midwifery
Print ISSN 0969-4900
Publisher Mark Allen Healthcare
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 27
Issue 9
Pages 578-588
DOI https://doi.org/10.12968/bjom.2019.27.9.578
Keywords Interpersonal trauma; Interpersonal violence; Substance use; Substance misuse; Pregnancy; New mothers
Public URL http://researchrepository.napier.ac.uk/Output/1789254
Contract Date May 31, 2019

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Copyright Statement
This document is the Accepted Manuscript version of a Published Work that appeared in final form in the British Journal of Midwifery, Vol. 27. No. 9, copyright © MA Healthcare, after peer review and technical editing by the publisher. To access the final edited and published work see https://doi.org/10.12968/bjom.2019.27.9.578.









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