Better Beginnings: At Risk Moms; What Are We Missing?

Abstract

Abstract BACKGROUND: Since 2005, the number of infants born to mothers using substances has increased 4-fold in an eastern Canadian province. These babies may be at risk of medical problems including a withdrawal syndrome called “neonatal abstinence syndrome”. Previous research has shown that mothers using substances may experience increased rates of domestic violence, mental illness and housing and food insecurity. Currently, these determinants of health are not routinely recorded on medical charts of pregnant women who are patients at the province’s largest maternity facility. OBJECTIVES: The primary goal of this study is to determine the prevalence of smoking, alcohol use, substance use, domestic violence and food/ housing insecurity in mothers delivering in an eastern Canadian province maternity hospital. DESIGN/METHODS: This is a quantitative study involving all postpar-tum women delivering at the major delivery facility in province over a two month period (N=150). Participants were asked to complete an online, anonymous survey about their food/housing situation, domestic violence and substance use before and during pregnancy, as well as sociodemo-graphic questions. RESULTS: Food and Housing Insecurity: The results of the study showed increased healthy eating behaviours during pregnancy; however the number of participants reliant on food banks remained at 4%. Our study found that while the majority of participants lived in a permanent residence, 2% of mothers used shelters or lived in a non-permanent residence. Mental health and Domestic Violence: While the majority of mother felt respected by their partner, family and friends, a significant amount reported feelings of isolation during pregnancy (12%). Women experiencing domestic violence stayed consistent before and during pregnancy at 2%. Smoking: Cigarette use in this population was slightly decreased from previous reports by the provincial perinatal program (12% vs. 14.9% reported) with rates of exposure to cigarette smoke much higher (24.7% vs. 6.4% reported). Alcohol use: Maternal reporting alcohol use during pregnancy was substantially increased from previous reports (13.3% vs. 0.9% reported). Those who reported consuming alcohol most frequently reported 1-2 drinks about 1-3 times per month. Substance Use: Currently, no reports within the province have captured the number of mothers using substances. This study shows approximately 5% of mothers using either marijuana, street/illicit drugs or methadone. Limitations: Mothers who did not speak English were excluded from the study. CONCLUSION: The findings of this research indicate that important determinants of health are not being adequately recorded in Provincial databases thus programs are lacking.