Physical and sexual abuse as predictors of substance use and suicide among pregnant teenagers

Abstract

In order to better define risk factors for perinatal substance abuse, data from 352 pregnant teenagers enrolled in a comprehensive prenatal clinic were analyzed. Fifteen years was the average age, 82% were of minority descent, and all were receiving public assistance. At their first visit, a social worker obtained information on their home environment, family history, education, peer relationships, physical and mental health, and history of substance use. Following the interview, all teens were given a complete prenatal examination, including drug toxicology screening. The results indicate relatively low rates of substance use based on toxicology at the time of enrollment (3.6%). Self-reported rates of substance use prior to awareness of conception varied from 23% for tobacco to 17% for alcohol and marijuana; 7% of the subjects reported use of illicit substances after conception was confirmed. In addition, 80 of the 352 subjects acknowledged having been physically or sexually abused and 40 admitted to having suicidal ideation or actions. A comparison of those teenagers who had been physically or sexually abused with the remaining cohort revealed significant differences on marijuana ( p < 0.01) and cocaine ( p < 0.05) use prior to awareness of conception and on prior suicidality ( p < 0.0001). A positive history of physical or sexual abuse delineated a subset of pregnant teenagers who were at high risk for self-destructive behaviors. Teenagers in prenatal clinics should be screened, not only for current and past substance use, but also for sexual and physical abuse, domestic violence, and suicidal thoughts and actions.