Substance, structure and stigma: Parents in the UK accounting for opioid substitution therapy during the antenatal and postnatal periods

Citation

Chandler A, Whittaker A, Cunningham-Burley S, Williams N, McGorm K & Mathews G (2013) Substance, structure and stigma: Parents in the UK accounting for opioid substitution therapy during the antenatal and postnatal periods. International Journal of Drug Policy, 24 (6), pp. e35-e42. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugpo.2013.04.004

Abstract
Parenting and pregnancy in the context of drug use is a contentious topic, high on the policy agenda. Providing effective support to parents who are opioid dependent, through early intervention, access to drug treatment and parenting skills training, is a priority. However, little is known about opioid dependent parents’ experiences and understanding of parenting support during the antenatal and postnatal periods. This paper focuses on the position and impact of opioid substitution therapy (OST) in the accounts of parents who were expecting, or who had recently had, a baby in the UK.

Keywords
Methadone maintenance treatment; Opioid substitution therapy; Parenting; Pregnancy

Journal
International Journal of Drug Policy: Volume 24, Issue 6

People

Professor Anne Whittaker

Professor of Nursing, NMAHP