Barriers to screening pregnant women for alcohol or other drugs: A narrative synthesis

The Impact of Social Vulnerability on Substance Use Detection Practices in Pregnancy

This study aimed to synthesize current literature regarding the impact of social vulnerability on pregnancy-related substance use detection in the United States and highlight disparities in substance use detection practices. Clinicaltrials.gov, Google Scholar, PubMed (includes MEDLINE), and Cochrane Library databases were searched using the following Medical Subject Headings (MeSH): (["pregnancy" or "prenatal"] AND ["substance use screening" or "urine toxicology testing" or "toxicology testing" or "urine drug screening" or "CRAFFT" or "4P's" or "4P's Plus" or "NIDA Quick Screen" or "DAST-10" or "SURP-P" or "WIDUS"], AND ("bias" or "disparities" or "social vulnerability"]). The search included systematic reviews, prospective and retrospective studies, randomized controlled trials, case studies, and qualitative and quantitative research from January 2014 through November 2023. Selected literature was limited to studies published in English, which included a study population of either pregnant individuals or pregnancy health care providers in the United States, and that were focused on inequities in pregnancy substance use detection. Using Covidence, three authors screened abstracts, and two screened full articles for inclusion. The included studies were evaluated for quality of evidence using the mixed methods appraisal tool. The search yielded 4,188 manuscripts; 37 were eligible for full review. A total of 18 manuscripts were included based on the relevancy of the topic. The most common social vulnerability domain identified was minority status (17/18), followed by socioeconomic status (11/18), household characteristics (8/18), and housing type (1/18). Social vulnerability plays a role in substance use detection among pregnant individuals. Most notably, race and ethnicity, age, and public insurance lead to increased rates of detection, though most individual factors need to be studied in greater depth. This study was registered with PROSPERO (PROSPERO ID CRD42022352598), the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. KEY POINTS: · Socially vulnerable pregnant individuals are more likely to receive substance use screening or urine toxicology testing.. · Race, ethnicity, age, and insurance influence substance use detection disparities.. · More research is needed to understand how other characteristics influence disparities in substance use detection..

Sociodemographic and Health Factors of the Alcohol Treatment-seeking Population in New South Wales, Australia

OBJECTIVES

Although factors associated with alcohol use have been researched at a population level, descriptions of the alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment-seeking population in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, are limited. This study addresses this gap by analyzing sociodemographic and health characteristics in the NSW AOD treatment-seeking population.

METHODS

Self-reported Australian Treatment Outcomes Profile data on substance use, health ratings, and sociodemographic factors were acquired from public AOD services (offering services from counseling to ambulatory/inpatient withdrawal management) in 6 administrative health districts from 2016 to 2019 (n = 14,287). Gaussian and multiple logistic regressions were conducted to examine associations between these factors and alcohol consumption quantity.

RESULTS

Data were analyzed for patients seeking treatment for alcohol consumption specifically (n = 5929; median age, 44 years; 65% male). Valid alcohol consumption data were available for 5460 patients, among whom the mean volume of alcohol consumed was 311 standard drinks (3110 grams of ethanol) over the past 28 days and 15 standard drinks (150 grams of ethanol) per occasion. Higher volumes were consumed by males and those with recent experiences of violence and/or injecting drug use. Caring for children younger than 5 years and having above-median health ratings were associated with lower alcohol consumption.

CONCLUSIONS

This study contributes to the characterization of the NSW public AOD treatment population and identifies associations between alcohol consumption, sociodemographic factors, and health ratings among people seeking treatment for alcohol consumption. Findings point towards multilevel assessment and comprehensive interventions for people engaging in treatment for alcohol use. Future research should address barriers to treatment.

Barriers and enablers to addressing smoking, nutrition, alcohol consumption, physical activity and gestational weight gain (SNAP-W) as part of antenatal care: A mixed methods systematic review

BACKGROUND

International clinical guidelines recommend that smoking, nutrition, alcohol consumption, physical activity and gestational weight gain (SNAP-W) be addressed as part of routine antenatal care throughout pregnancy. However, guideline recommendations are poorly implemented, and few antenatal care recipients routinely receive the recommended care. There is a need to establish the determinants (barriers and enablers) to care delivery to inform strategies to improve implementation. This systematic review aimed to synthesize qualitative and quantitative evidence of the barriers and enablers to the routine delivery of antenatal care targeting SNAP-W health risks.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Seven databases were searched for relevant studies published between January 2001 and November 2023. Study findings were coded and analysed according to the domains of the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF).

RESULTS

Forty-nine studies were included in the review, 27 qualitative studies and 22 quantitative studies. The studies were conducted in 14 countries. Data were collected from 7146 antenatal care providers (midwives, Aboriginal health workers, obstetricians, medical officers, general practitioners) and 352 barriers and enablers were identified. Across all SNAP-W health risk and antenatal care provider groups, the predominant TDF domain was 'environmental context and resources', identified in 96% of studies. Barriers within this domain included insufficient time, limited access to and quality of resources, and limited organisational supports. 'Beliefs about consequences' was the second most common TDF domain, reported in 67% of studies, particularly studies of care related to alcohol use, nutrition/ physical activity/ gestational weight gain and those involving midwives, multidisciplinary practitioners and general practitioners. 'Optimism' was the second most common TDF domain for studies of smoking-related care and involving obstetricians, gynaecologists, and other mixed medical professions.

CONCLUSIONS

It is critical that determinants related to environmental context and resources including time, resources and organisational supports are considered in the development of strategies to support the implementation of recommended antenatal care related to SNAP-W risks. Strategies addressing clinician beliefs about consequences and optimism may also be needed to support the implementation of care related to specific health behaviours and by specific antenatal care provider groups.

REGISTRATION

The review protocol was prospectively registered with Prospero: CRD42022353084; 22 October 2022.

Risk Identification in Perinatal Health Care Settings via Technology-Based Recruitment Methods: Comparative Study

BACKGROUND

Digital screening and intervention tools have shown promise in the identification and reduction of substance use in health care settings. However, research in this area is impeded by challenges in integrating recruitment efforts into ongoing clinical workflows or staffing multiple study clinics with full-time research assistants, as well as by the underreporting of substance use.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study is to evaluate pragmatic methods for facilitating study recruitment in health care settings by examining recruitment rates and participant characteristics using in-person-based versus flyer approaches.

METHODS

This study compared recruitment rates at a Women's Health clinic in the Midwest under 2 different recruitment strategies: in person versus via a flyer with a QR code. We also examined the disclosure of substance use and risk screener positivity for the 2 strategies. We also obtained information about the current use of technology and willingness to use it for study participation.

RESULTS

A greater percentage of patients recruited in person participated than those recruited via flyers (57/63, 91% vs 64/377, 17%). However, the final number recruited in each group was roughly equal (n=57 vs n=64). Additionally, participants recruited via flyers were more likely to screen positive for alcohol use risk on the Tolerance, Annoyed, Cut Down, Eye-Opener alcohol screen than those recruited at the clinic (24/64, 38% vs 11/57, 19%; χ21=4.9; P=.03). Participants recruited via flyers were also more likely to screen positive for drug use risk on the Wayne Indirect Drug Use Screener than those recruited at the clinic (20/64, 31% vs 9/57, 16%; χ21=4.0; P=.05). Furthermore, of the 121 pregnant women, 117 (96.7%) reported owning a smartphone, 111 (91.7%) had an SMS text message plan on their phone, and 94 (77.7%) reported being willing to receive SMS text messages or participate in a study if sent a link to their phone.

CONCLUSIONS

The distribution of flyers with a QR code by medical staff appears to be an efficient and cost-effective method of recruitment that also facilitates disclosure while reducing the impact on clinic workflows. This method of recruitment can be useful for data collection at multiple locations and lead to larger samples across and between health systems. Participant recruitment via technology in perinatal health care appears to facilitate disclosure, particularly when participants can learn about the research and complete screening using their own device at a place and time convenient for them. Pregnant women in an urban Midwestern hospital had access to and were comfortable using technology.

Stigma and self-stigma among women within the context of the german "zero alcohol during pregnancy" recommendation: A qualitative analysis of online forums and blogs

BACKGROUND

In many countries, including Germany, it is recommended to abstain from alcohol during pregnancy to avoid harm to the baby. In this qualitative research study, analysis of online forums was conducted to explore women's perception of the German "zero alcohol during pregnancy" recommendation with regard to stigma and self-stigma.

METHODS

We used a grounded theory approach to analyze online forum discussions on alcohol use during pregnancy. Data consisted of 9 discussion threads from 5 different forums and blogs involving 115 participants in total. We used key concepts developed during analysis and the theory of stigma to interpret the posts.

RESULTS

We identified five key themes: (1) Low alcohol health literacy as a breeding ground for stigmatization; (2) The widespread assumption that maternal abstinence is a prerequisite for being considered a "good mother"; (3) Interpersonal role conflicts and a guilty conscience as a result of stigmatization or self-stigmatization; (4) Paying little attention to the role of psychosocial factors in alcohol consumption, especially regarding partner responsibility during pregnancy.; (5) Understanding the "zero alcohol during pregnancy" recommendation as a complete ban, associated with loss of autonomy.

CONCLUSION

The current method of communicating the "zero alcohol during pregnancy" recommendation may have unintended consequences. Specifically, misconceptions about the harm associated with low alcohol consumption and setting high expectations of motherhood are factors that can contribute to stigma or self-stigma and potentially undermine self-efficacy, help-seeking behavior, and overcoming the barriers to alcohol health literacy.

Antenatal healthcare providers' knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding food insecurity in pregnancy: A qualitative investigation based at a specialist antenatal hospital in Melbourne, Australia

BACKGROUND

Food insecurity exists when accessibility and availability of nutritious food is restricted, increasing the risk of adverse health outcomes. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable to food insecurity, which is concerning as optimal nutrition to support both their own health and the health and growth of their unborn child is critical. Antenatal healthcare providers (AHPs) are central to provision of pregnancy care. We aimed to assess AHPs' knowledge, attitudes and management of food insecurity.

METHODS

Semi-structured interviews were conducted face-to-face, via telephone or online via Webex with 16 AHPs at the Royal Women's Hospital located in Melbourne, Australia. Interviews were thematically analysed according to Charmaz's constructivist grounded theory approach to ascertain AHPs' knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding food insecurity during pregnancy.

RESULTS

AHPs had limited knowledge and awareness of food insecurity in pregnancy. Lack of experience in managing food insecurity and time constraints limit their capacity to support and deliver care to food-insecure women. There was a reported lack of structure and clarity surrounding referral pathways for effective management of food insecurity during pregnancy, as well as a lack of clarity regarding practitioner responsibility in managing this issue.

CONCLUSIONS

Current assessment and management of food insecurity during pregnancy in the antenatal setting is suboptimal. Professional development strategies targeted to AHPs are urgently needed to assist optimal care of women who are food insecure during pregnancy to assist with supporting best maternal and child health.

Opioid, methamphetamine, and polysubstance use: perinatal outcomes for the mother and infant

The escalation in opioid pain relief (OPR) medications, heroin and fentanyl, has led to an increased use during pregnancy and a public health crisis. Methamphetamine use in women of childbearing age has now eclipsed the use of cocaine and other stimulants globally. Recent reports have shown increases in methamphetamine are selective to opioid use, particularly in rural regions in the US. This report compares the extent of our knowledge of the perinatal outcomes of OPRs, heroin, fentanyl, two long-acting substances used in the treatment of opioid use disorders (buprenorphine and methadone), and methamphetamine. The methodological limitations of the current research are examined, and two important initiatives that will address these limitations are reviewed. Current knowledge of the perinatal effects of short-acting opioids, OPRs, heroin, and fentanyl, is scarce. Most of what we know about the perinatal effects of opioids comes from research on the long-acting opioid agonist drugs used in the treatment of OUDs, methadone and buprenorphine. Both have better perinatal outcomes for the mother and newborn than heroin, but the uptake of these opioid substitution programs is poor (<50%). Current research on perinatal outcomes of methamphetamine is limited to retrospective epidemiological studies, chart reviews, one study from a treatment center in Hawaii, and the US and NZ cross-cultural infant Development, Environment And Lifestyle IDEAL studies. Characteristics of pregnant individuals in both opioid and MA studies were associated with poor maternal health, higher rates of mental illness, trauma, and poverty. Infant outcomes that differed between opioid and MA exposure included variations in neurobehavior at birth which could complicate the diagnosis and treatment of neonatal opioid withdrawal (NOWs). Given the complexity of OUDs in pregnant individuals and the increasing co-use of these opioids with MA, large studies are needed. These studies need to address the many confounders to perinatal outcomes and employ neurodevelopmental markers at birth that can help predict long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes. Two US initiatives that can provide critical research and treatment answers to this public health crisis are the US Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) program and the Medication for Opioid Use Disorder During Pregnancy Network (MAT-LINK).

Stigmatization of people with addiction by health professionals: Current knowledge. A scoping review

Background

Stigma of people with substance and non-substance use disorders (SNSUD) is a long-known phenomenon. The aim of this review was to assess the stigmatization, by health professionals, of people with SNSUD, its characteristics and change over time.

Methods

A scoping review of literature reviews was conducted with systematic search of PubMed, Scopus and PsycINFO databases.

Results

From the 19 selected reviews, all focused on people with SUD (PWSUD) only and 20 % to 51 % of health professionals had negative attitudes/beliefs about SUD. Addiction training and clinical experience with PWSUD were associated with a less negative attitude. Health professionals' negative beliefs, lack of time or support were associated with less involvement in addiction care. Tobacco use disorder, SUDs other than alcohol and tobacco, relapse, psychiatric comorbidity or criminal records were associated with a more negative attitude. The influence of several variables potentially related to stigmatization was inconsistent across selected reviews. The evolution of stigmatization over time was not systematically assessed and showed mixed results.

Conclusions

The stigmatization of PWSUD has an impact on their care, and a change in some variables could reduce its importance: moral model of addiction, health professionals' negative beliefs, lack of training, time, and role support. Teaching what addiction is according to the medical chronic disease model, and developing stigma-focused training could improve caregivers' attitudes and further reduce stigma. Further studies are needed to determine whether stigma of PWSUD by health professionals has changed over time and to characterize stigma for people with non-substance use disorders.

Missingness patterns in a comprehensive instrument identifying psychosocial and substance use risk in antenatal care

BACKGROUND

Psychosocial vulnerabilities (e.g. inadequate social support, financial insecurity, stress) and substance use elevate risks for adverse perinatal outcomes and maternal mental health morbidities. However, various barriers, including paucity of validated, simple and usable comprehensive instruments, impede execution of the recommendations to screen for such vulnerabilities in the first antenatal care visit. The current study presents findings from a newly implemented self-report tool created to overcome screening barriers in outpatient antenatal clinics.

METHODS

This was a retrospective chart-review of 904 women who completed the Profile for Maternal & Obstetric Treatment Effectiveness (PROMOTE) during their first antenatal visit between June and December 2019. The PROMOTE includes the 4-item NIDA Quick Screen and 15 additional items that each assess a different psychosocial vulnerability. Statistical analysis included evaluation of missing data, and exploration of missing data patterns using univariate correlations and hierarchical clustering.

RESULTS

Three quarters of women (70.0%) had no missing items. In the entire sample, all but four PROMOTE items (opioid use, planned pregnancy, educational level, and financial state) had < 5% missing values, suggesting good acceptability and feasibility. Several respondent-related characteristics such as lower education, less family support, and greater stress were associated with greater likelihood of missing items. Instrument-related characteristics associated with missing values were completing the PROMOTE in Spanish or question positioning at the end of the instrument.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Conducting a comprehensive screening of theoretically and clinically meaningful vulnerabilities in an outpatient setting is feasible. Study findings will inform modifications of the PROMOTE and subsequent digitisation.

An evaluation of a multi-site fetal alcohol spectrum disorder models of care project

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) continues to be underdiagnosed in Australia, partly due to the lack of trained clinicians and diagnostic services. This project aimed to help increase FASD knowledge and diagnostic capacity across Australia. Six sites across Australia formed part of a national consortium, delivering training clinics, diagnostic clinics and community education sessions. The number of FASD diagnoses significantly increased across the project. Additionally, the number of community education sessions steadily increased across the project, with largely positive feedback. Participants attending the training clinics demonstrated increased knowledge of and confidence in FASD diagnosis. This evaluation showcases the benefits of a coordinated approach to prevention, assessment, diagnosis and training in FASD.

"I am busy enough…": Navigating challenges experienced by Medicaid providers serving pregnant people living with substance use disorders in Alabama

PURPOSE

Perinatal substance use is a clinical and public health concern. The purpose of the study was to understand the perspectives and experiences of perinatal healthcare providers serving pregnant people who receive Medicaid and are living with a substance use disorder.

DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a secondary data analysis of the responses from perinatal healthcare providers who completed a survey to assess the state of Alabama's capability to effectively identify and treat individuals with substance use disorder. We analyzed short answer responses using consensus coding.

FINDINGS

Nine-hundred and ninety-five Medicaid providers completed the survey, 36 of the respondents identified that they were employed in an obstetric practice. Health insurance limitations, a lack of time and resources, and limited treatment options were the primary barriers indicated in the participants' responses.

CONCLUSIONS

Structural and health system barriers negatively impact the capacity of perinatal healthcare providers in Alabama to serve pregnant people who receive Medicaid and are living with a substance use disorder.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Perinatal healthcare providers need educational opportunities, training, and up-to-date resources to provide supportive, comprehensive care programming for perinatal populations with substance use disorders.

Saving time, signaling trust: Using the PROMOTE self-report screening instrument to enhance prenatal care quality and therapeutic relationships

OBJECTIVES

Comprehensive screening of psychosocial vulnerabilities and substance use in prenatal care is critical to promote the health and well-being of pregnant patients. Effective implementation of new screening procedures and instruments should be accompanied by an in-depth investigation to assess their feasibility and impact on care delivery.

METHODS

In 2020, following implementation of the Profile for Maternal and Obstetric Treatment Effectiveness (PROMOTE) an innovative self-report screening instrument developed for outpatient prenatal clinics in the U.S., we conducted individual interviews and focus groups with twenty-two midwives, nurse practitioners, and obstetric residents focused on the PROMOTE and its impacts on care delivery. We used interpretive description for the qualitative analysis of the interviews.

RESULTS

Five themes were identified: Guiding Time Efficiently: "The Time I Don't Have," Preventing Missed Care, Signaling Trustworthiness, Establishing Trauma-Informed Foundations, and Promoting "Honest" Patient Disclosure.

CONCLUSION

Interviews suggest that patient completion of the PROMOTE before the medical encounter helps reduce previously reported barriers, is more time-effective, and makes history-taking easier. It also facilitates the patient-provider relationship.

INNOVATION

Findings offer insight into the breadth and depth of clinical impact resulting from the PROMOTE, and provide guidance for the implementation of such tools to optimize health outcomes.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder in health, justice, and education professionals: A systematic review

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is one of the most common forms of developmental disability, and yet, anecdotally, is poorly understood by both the public and professionals across health, justice, education, and social services. This review aims to understand the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of professionals who work across a range of sectors - specifically health, education and justice - where they may encounter people with FASD, their families and caregivers.

METHOD

We conducted a systematic search for research using surveys or questionnaires to address knowledge, and attitudes of professionals in health, education, and justice with regards to FASD between 1990 and 2021. Our search consisted of electronic databases (APA PsychInfo, CINAHL, EMBASE, Medline, PubMed, and PAIS Index) and grey literature sources.

RESULTS

Our search yielded 971 results, of which 58 were relevant. The studies surveyed professionals from health (n = 35), education (n = 10), justice (n = 8), social services (n = 1), and multiple settings (n = 4). Most studies were conducted in North America. The areas surveyed included knowledge of FASD, attitudes towards people with FASD, experience with FASD, practices towards people with FASD, and education and training needs.

CONCLUSIONS

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards FASD have been surveyed extensively in healthcare professionals over the last 30 years, but less so with those working in justice and education sectors. Findings from surveys suggest that although most professionals had some knowledge of the effects of FASD, their knowledge of the specific criteria of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) and FASD is poor across most professional groups, including most health professionals. Our review highlights the need to provide training and information across sectors ongoing surveillance to determine where gaps in knowledge are and what resources are needed.

WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS

This study is the first to systematically synthesize knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward FASD across different sectors. Poor knowledge and insufficient training were common. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices about FASD have been surveyed extensively in the healthcare setting, but surveys are more limited outside of this setting. Continuous surveillance is needed to identify and respond to knowledge gaps and changes in practice.

Screening Food Insecure during Pregnancy: Pilot Testing an Effective Brief Tool for Use in an Australian Antenatal Care Setting

The purpose of this research is: (1) to determine the prevalence of food insecurity among pregnant people using the 10-, 6-, and 2-item iterations of the USA Household Food Security Survey Module (HFSSM) and the single item measure, and (2) identify an appropriate combination of questions that could be used to identify food insecurity in a clinical setting for a population of people who are pregnant in Australia. Cross-sectional survey collecting self-reported data from pregnant people in Australia (open May 2021 to March 2022). Survey included demographic characteristics, including income/welfare use, education, age, pregnancy information, household size and composition, and two measures of food insecurity. In total, 303 participants were included in the analysis. Sensitivity and specificity of the various combinations of questions were conducted. Food insecurity was estimated using the single item, and the 2-item, 6-item, and 10-item versions of the HFSSM, food insecurity was 6.2%, 11.4%, 11.7%, and 14.3% respectively. Respondents who were living in households that were food insecure answered affirmatively to question one, two, or three of the HFSSM, with the combination of questions one and three showing the best sensitivity and specificity for the whole sample, as well as for those who have characteristics likely to lead to food insecurity. Further testing of the 2-items, comprised of items one and three from the HFSSM, need to be conducted with a larger and more diverse sample to determine if this is an appropriate screening tool in an antenatal clinical setting to determine food insecurity during pregnancy.

Consensus from an expert panel on how to identify and support food insecurity during pregnancy: A modified Delphi study

BACKGROUND

Food insecurity and hunger during pregnancy have significant implications for the health of the mother and baby. Assisting clinicians when they encounter women who are experiencing hunger or food insecurity during their pregnancy will increase the opportunity for better birth and pregnancy outcomes. At present there are no guidelines for Australian clinicians on how to do this.

METHODS

This study uses a modified Delphi technique, allowing diverse participation in the process, to create consensus on the ways to address and respond to food insecurity during pregnancy. This modified Delphi collected data via two rounds of consensus. The opinions collected from the first round were thematically categorised and grouped. The topics were integrated into the survey for the second round and circulated to participants. During the second round, priorities were scored by giving five points to the topic considered most important, and one point to the least important.

RESULTS

Through two rounds of consultation, the panel achieved consensus on how to identify food insecurity during pregnancy, with some clear items of consensus related to interventions that could be implemented to address food insecurity during pregnancy. Experts achieved consensus on items that have importance at the institution and policy level, as well as services that exist in the community. The consensus across the spectrum of opportunities for assistance, from the clinical, to community-provided assistance, and on to government policy and practice demonstrate the complexity of this issue, and the multipronged approach that will be required to address it.

CONCLUSION

This is the first time such a consultation with experts on hunger and food insecurity during pregnancy has been conducted in Australia. Items that achieved consensus and the importance of the issue suggest several ways forward when working with pregnant women who are hungry and/or food insecure.

Strategies for Prevention or Treatment of Tobacco and Cannabis Use Disorder

Tobacco and cannabis use in pregnancy are associated with increased adverse perinatal and long-term offspring outcomes. Products for both have evolved with various forms available on the market, challenging accurate counseling of risks and quantification of tobacco and cannabis usage during the perinatal period. Health care providers are recommended to screen for any type of use, provide consistent messaging of harms of tobacco and cannabis use in pregnancy, and offer individualized interventions. The journey to cessation can be complicated by barriers and triggers, lack of social supports, and mental health challenges that should be addressed to prevent relapse and withdrawals.

Identifying the Assumptions and Bias That Affect Screening and Brief Interventions for Harmful Alcohol Use

BACKGROUND

Screening for harmful alcohol use (HAU) is standard in clinical settings; however, self-reports of the quantity/frequency of use are often inconsistent with population survey data and objective assessment. Inaccuracies of self-reported alcohol use prompt exploration of patients' reluctance to share this information with their health care providers.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this article is to identify the assumptions and biases that affect screening and brief interventions for HAU.

METHOD

A total of 22 research articles were selected for a systematic review of the literature. The studies included prospective and retrospective studies, randomized controlled trials, case studies, and quantitative and qualitative research from 2015 to 2021.

RESULTS

This systematic review identified alcohol health literacy, the inherent bias of surveys and screening tools, stigma, avoidance bias, and the normalization/villainization of alcohol use as contributors to the assumptions and biases that affect screening and brief interventions for HAU.

CONCLUSIONS

Exploring these assumptions and biases presents opportunities to develop strategies that promote positive change.

Barriers to women's disclosure of and treatment for substance use during pregnancy: A qualitative study

INTRODUCTION

The use of alcohol and or illicit drugs during pregnancy is a complex public health issue. There are many adverse short- and long-term health implications of substance use during pregnancy that can potentially affect the mother-foetal dyad. Although prevention and treatment options - such as counselling, pharmacotherapy, rehabilitation, support and case management and withdrawal management - are available, a range of barriers impedes women's ability to disclose their substance use, which limits access and engagement with available services.

OBJECTIVE

This research explored barriers women encountered in disclosing substance use and accessing substance use treatment in pregnancy.

METHODS

Participants were recruited from a longitudinal cohort study of people with a history of injecting drug use from metropolitan Melbourne. One-on-one in-depth interviews with 15 participants were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. To be included in this study, participants must have reported a history of substance use during one or more of their pregnancies.

RESULTS

The fear of losing child custody associated with the involvement of the child protection services was one of the main barriers to disclosing substance use during pregnancy and accessing treatment and rehabilitation services. Other barriers including stigma and perceived limited treatment options impacted women in various ways.

CONCLUSION

Pregnancy is an important time for women and offers opportunities for service providers to support women who are using substances. While not all barriers can be removed, careful consideration of individual cases and circumstances may help service providers to tailor interventions that are likely to be more successful.

Substance Use in Pregnancy: Identifying Stigma and Improving Care

This review examines the impact of stigma on pregnant people who use substances. Stigma towards people who use drugs is pervasive and negatively impacts the care of substance-using people by characterizing addiction as a weakness and fostering beliefs that undermine the personal resources needed to access treatment and recover from addiction, including self-efficacy, help seeking and belief that they deserve care. Stigma acts on multiple levels by blaming people for having a problem and then making it difficult for them to get help, but in spite of this, most pregnant people who use substances reduce or stop using when they learn they are pregnant. Language, beliefs about gender roles, and attitudes regarding fitness for parenting are social factors that can express and perpetuate stigma while facilitating punitive rather than therapeutic approaches. Because of stigmatizing attitudes that a person who uses substances is unfit to parent, pregnant people who use substances are at heightened risk of being screened for substance use, referred to child welfare services, and having their parental rights taken away; these outcomes are even more likely for people of color. Various treatment options can successfully support recovery in substance-using pregnant populations, but treatment is underutilized in all populations including pregnant people, and more knowledge is needed on how to sustain engagement in treatment and recovery activities. To combat stigma when working with substance-using pregnant people throughout the peripartum period, caregivers should utilize a trauma-informed approach that incorporates harm reduction and motivational interviewing with a focus on building trust, enhancing self-efficacy, and strengthening the personal skills and resources needed to optimize health of the parent-baby dyad.

Effectiveness of psychological interventions to reduce alcohol consumption among pregnant and postpartum women: a systematic review

This study aims to synthesise the available evidence on psychological interventions to reduce alcohol consumption among pregnant and postpartum women. Six electronic databases were searched to identify controlled studies targeting pregnant and postpartum women who drink or are at risk of drinking due to previous patterns of alcohol use. Controlled quantitative studies such as randomised controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies were included. The search was limited to peer-reviewed articles in English. The methodological quality of studies was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. A narrative synthesis of the findings was conducted. In total, 12,610 records were screened, and 11 studies were eligible for inclusion (9 with pregnant women, 2 with postpartum women). All studies were randomised controlled trials. Five studies had positive or partially positive primary outcomes of reductions in drinking or abstinence, and their interventions ranged from multi-session brief interventions to self-help manuals based on cognitive behavioural components. All studies showed considerable methodological limitations. Psychological interventions may be effective in promoting abstinence or reducing alcohol consumption among pregnant and postpartum women. Interventions that demonstrated some efficacy showed higher level of engagement with pregnant women compared to studies which delivered interventions in a single session. Paucity of evidence, inconsistency of outcomes, large heterogeneity in the interventions and methodological weaknesses limit the ability to make final conclusions about the overall effectiveness of these interventions. Findings highlight the need for better quality research on this topic.

Evidence for the Effectiveness and Acceptability of e-SBI or e-SBIRT in the Management of Alcohol and Illicit Substance Use in Pregnant and Post-partum Women

Alcohol and illicit psychoactive drug use during pregnancy have increased worldwide, putting women and their children's health and development at risk. Multiple drug use, comorbid psychiatric disorders, sexual and physical abuse are common in women who use alcohol and drugs during pregnancy. The effects on the mother include poor reproductive and life-long health, legal, family, and social problems. Additionally, the exposed child is at increased risk of long-term physical health, mental health, and developmental problems. The stigma associated with substance use during pregnancy and some clinicians' reticence to inquire about substance use means many women are not receiving adequate prenatal, substance abuse, and mental health care. Evidence for mHealth apps to provide health care for pregnant and post-partum women reveal the usability and effectiveness of these apps to reduce gestational weight gain, improve nutrition, promote smoking cessation and manage gestational diabetes mellitus, and treat depression and anxiety. Emerging evidence suggests mHealth technology using a public health approach of electronic screening, brief intervention, or referral to treatment (e-SBIRT) for substance use or abuse can overcome the typical barriers preventing women from receiving treatment for alcohol and drug use during pregnancy. This brief intervention delivered through a mobile device may be equally effective as SBIRT delivered by a health care professional in preventing maternal drug use, minimizing the effects to the exposed child, and providing a pathway to therapeutic options for a substance use disorder. However, larger studies in more diverse settings with women who have co-morbid mental illness and a constellation of social risk factors that are frequently associated with substance use disorders are needed.

Midwives' views on alcohol guidelines: A qualitative study of barriers and facilitators to implementation in UK antenatal care

OBJECTIVE

Midwives play an important role in health promotion and prevention of alcohol-related harm, but previous research has suggested that although most midwives report advising on abstinence, evidence exist that women are informed that "some" alcohol is not harmful. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore midwives' views on implementation of the 2016 Chief Medical Officers' alcohol guidelines in antenatal care in the UK.

METHODS

Focus groups and individual interviews with 22 midwives working in maternity and educational settings in the UK were conducted either in person or over telephone. Data were subjected to thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Conflict between guidelines from different sources and lack of knowledge of the abstinence advice issued in the Guidelines were barriers to discussing abstinence. Communication with women and building relationships were key facilitators supporting alcohol discussions. How alcohol was addressed appeared to vary across the UK with no uniform approach. Building a trusted relationship was believed to be the way in which women can disclose alcohol use, though the first antenatal contact was not always viewed as the best time to discuss what was considered a personal matter.

CONCLUSION

Despite the release of new guidance in 2016, there was little recognition and awareness of these among midwives. Midwives were by default guided by other national clinical sources or guidelines. Future research should explore how practice-based interventions can address systemic and interpersonal factors to support health professionals to implement the Guidelines, and ensure that women are provided support to change unhealthy behaviours.

Diagnosis and treatment of substance use disorder among pregnant women in three state Medicaid programs from 2013 to 2016

Substance use disorder (SUD) during pregnancy increases risks of adverse outcomes for mothers and children. Because Medicaid covers about half of all births and maternal SUD is a costly problem, describing the timing of enrollment and health care that Medicaid-enrolled pregnant women with SUDs receive is critical to understanding gaps in the timeliness and specificity of SUD diagnosis and treatment for pregnant women with SUDs. We used linked maternal and infant Medicaid claims and enrollment data and infant birth records from three states (n=72,086 mother-infant dyads) to estimate the share of sample women diagnosed with a specified SUD (e.g., opioid use disorder) before or during the birth month, with a specified SUD after the birth month, and with only an unspecified SUD diagnosed (e.g., drug use disorder complicating pregnancy). We also examined the timing of first observed Medicaid enrollment, SUD diagnosis and treatment, and maternal and infant costs. In the 24 months surrounding birth, 3.6% of women had a specified SUD diagnosis first observed before or during the birth month, 1.7% had a specified SUD diagnosis first observed after the birth month, and 6.0% had an SUD diagnosis that was not specified. Most women with a specified SUD diagnosis were enrolled in Medicaid before or early in pregnancy and initiated prenatal care in the first or second trimester, yet nearly one-third of these women received their specified SUD diagnosis after the birth month. Less than two-thirds of women with a specified SUD diagnosis received any SUD treatment during the study period (59.9% among those identified before or during the birth month and 63.1% among those observed after the birth month), and women with an unspecified SUD were about half as likely to get treatment (28.6%). Among treated women, more than two-thirds had the first observed treatment in the same month as their first observed SUD diagnosis. Findings point to a critical need for interventions as well as substantial opportunities to improve the identification of substance use-related needs and provision of treatment among women who birth in Medicaid. Changes in Medicaid and other public policy to reduce disincentives for pregnant and parenting women to report substance use during medical visits and to increase providers' abilities and motivation to equitably screen for as well as treat women with SUDs before, during, and after pregnancy could improve outcomes for mothers and their children. Improvements in SUD diagnosis would also improve prevalence estimates of specific types of SUD, which could contribute to better Medicaid policies aimed at prevention and treatment.

Postpartum Analgesia in New Mothers (PAIN) Study: A Survey of Canadian Obstetricians' Post-Delivery Opioid-Prescribing Practices

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to describe opioid prescribing practices after obstetric delivery and to evaluate how these practices compare with national opioid prescribing guidelines.

METHODS

A closed survey was developed, evaluated for validity and reliability, and distributed by email to obstetrician members of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) in December 2018. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize respondent demographics, pharmaceutical pain management strategies, and opioid prescribing practices. Logistic regression was used to measure associations between respondent characteristics and high-risk opioid prescribing practices (e.g., prescribing >50 mg morphine equivalent dose per day, prescribing >5 days, not screening for substance/opioid use disorder before prescribing).

RESULTS

Our survey had high content validity (content validity index 0.89; 95% CI 0.78-1.00) and adequate reliability (Kappa 0.70; 95% CI 0.63-0.84 and intraclass correlation coefficient 0.70; 95% CI 0.67-0.81). Of the 1019 SOGC members reached, 243 initiated the survey (response rate, 24%). Among respondents, 235 (92%) completed the survey. Among opioid prescribers, 47% reported at least 1 high-risk opioid prescribing practice, the most frequent being a lack of substance/opioid use disorder screening. In the adjusted logistic regression model, being in practice more than 20 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.53; 95% CI 0.29-0.93) and practising in a non-central area of Canada (aOR 0.49; 95% CI 0.28-0.84) reduced the odds of high-risk prescribing.

CONCLUSION

Further research on barriers to screening are needed to support and enhance safer opioid prescribing practices among Canadian obstetricians.

Alcohol Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) for Girls and Women

Females ages 12 and older are the fastest growing segment of alcohol consumers in the United States, with the past decade showing a 16% increase in alcohol use per 12-month period and a 58% increase in high-risk drinking (i.e., > 3 drinks in a day and/or > 7 drinks in a week) per 12-month period. The increase in alcohol use and risk drinking poses unique and serious consequences for women. Women have a more rapid progression to alcohol-related problems and alcohol use disorders (AUD) than men, and if pregnant, women can potentially expose the fetus to alcohol. Screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) is an evidence-based, integrated public health approach used to identify and address risky alcohol use among women in a variety of health and social service settings. This article presents the current status of SBIRT among girls ages 12 and older, women of childbearing age, and older women. Screening instruments, brief interventions, and implementation issues specific to women of all ages are described. Through this review of the current literature, care providers can determine best practices for the prevention and treatment of risk drinking in women of all ages presenting in health care settings.

Exploring factors influencing adverse birth outcomes in a regional hospital setting in Ghana: A configuration theoretical perspective

BACKGROUND

Understanding the complexity of factors that influence adverse childbirth outcomes at health facilities can be enhanced by the theoretical articulation of the interplay between external socio-structural and internal technical dynamics of the birthplace in context. Guided by configuration theory, this study explored the factors that influence adverse birth outcomes at a regional hospital setting in Ghana.

METHODS

Qualitative data were collected from the Upper West regional hospital in Ghana. In-depth interviews were administered to 30 purposively selected respondents comprising 20 postpartum mothers and 10 midwives. The data was electronically audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis.

FINDINGS

The study revealed three key dimensions of socio-technical configurations shaping adverse birth outcomes within the hospital setting. These are mother-midwife personality and behavioral dynamics including personality clashes and poor communication; birth process dynamics consisting of diverse paradigms of safe birthing process and socio-technical conflicts on caesarean section; and birthplace context, comprising nature of the birthing environment, confidence in the safety of the birthplace and national health policy implementation challenges. These socio-technical interactions result in late reporting at facilities by mothers and delay in care delivery by midwives, contributing to adverse birth outcomes.

CONCLUSION

In line with configuration theory, our study positions the influences of adverse birth outcomes in hospital settings in alignment with a subtle and iterative interplay of socio-technical factors. To comprehensively address adverse birth outcomes in hospital settings, health policymakers and practitioners need to understand and contextualise the socio-technical interactions that shape notable outcomes at specific hospital settings.

Identification of Alcohol Risk Drinking Behaviour in Pregnancy Using a Web-Based Questionnaire: Large-Scale Implementation in Antenatal Care

Aims

This study aimed to examine the feasibility of a web-based questionnaire when collecting information on alcohol consumption in pregnancy to identify women with risk drinking behaviour, and to describe factors associated with risk drinking behaviour, and the use of specialized care for prenatal risk drinking.

Methods

In 2413 women referred to antenatal care at Odense University Hospital, Denmark, April–October 2018, self-reported alcohol intake was retrieved from a web-based questionnaire. Replies were screened for risk drinking behaviour: current intake of ≥7 drinks/week, ≥3 binge drinking episodes (intake of ≥5 drinks on a single occasion) in pregnancy, binge drinking after recognition of pregnancy and/or a TWEAK-score ≥ 2 points. Women with risk drinking behaviour were called to clarify the need for specialized care. A summary of the interview was obtained from the medical records.

Results

Overall, 2168 (90%) completed the questionnaire. Of 2097 women providing information on alcohol intake, 77 (4%) had risk drinking behaviour. Risk drinking was associated with higher alcohol intake prior to pregnancy, spontaneous conception, younger age, nulliparity and higher level of physical activity in pregnancy. Amongst 47 women with risk drinking behaviour reached by phone, five (11%, 95% CI 4–23%) accepted examinations of the child by paediatrician and child psychologist, and &lt;3 (not further specified due to small numbers) were referred to specialized antenatal care.

Conclusions

A web-based questionnaire was feasible when collecting information on alcohol consumption in pregnancy to identify risk drinking behaviour. Women with risk drinking behaviour had a low acceptance of referral to specialized care.

Barriers and facilitators in antenatal settings to screening and referral of pregnant women who use alcohol or other drugs: A qualitative study of midwives' experience

BACKGROUND

Screening pregnant women for substance use is highly recommended in antenatal care settings. Although midwives provide routine screening for substance use and referral for treatment in pregnancy, little is known about the barriers and facilitators they experience.

AIM

The study explored barriers and facilitators experienced by midwives in antenatal settings to screening and referral of pregnant women who use alcohol or other drugs.

DESIGN/SETTING

A semi-structured interview was adopted to explore barriers and facilitators experienced by midwives in screening and referring pregnant women for alcohol or other drugs specialised services. Eighteen midwives were recruited from urban, regional and rural antenatal settings in Victoria. Interviews were tape recorded and transcribed verbatim. Themes were generated by thematic analysis, the process of identifying patterns within the data.

FINDINGS

Of the seven themes identified under barriers, five could be categorised as "institution and provider-related", namely: (i) lack of validated screening tool, (ii) inadequate support and training, (iii) discomfort in screening, (iv) lack of multidisciplinary team and specialised treatment in regional and rural areas, and (v) workload and limited consultation time. Conversely, two themes could be classified as 'client-related', namely (i) non- or partial-disclosure of substance use, and (ii) reluctance and non-adherence to referrals. All five themes under facilitators were "institution and provider-related." They are (i) a woman-centred philosophy of care, (ii) evidence of harms from substance use on neonates, (iii) experience and training, (iv) continuity of care, and (v) availability of multidisciplinary team and funding.

KEY CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of its kind conducted in Victoria. This study not only adds to the limited body of knowledge on barriers experienced by midwives but also identifies facilitators in antenatal settings that promote screening and referral of pregnant women who use substance. Most of the barriers and facilitators are interrelated. Despite midwives' willingness to screen all pregnant women for substance use and provision of referral, they often felt limited in their capacity. Availability and accessibility to validated screening tool(s), in addition to regular, ongoing training for all midwives to maintain clinical competence and provide effective communication are imperative. Availability of a multidisciplinary team, funds and specialised care facilities such as detoxification and mental health services, especially in regional and rural areas, are necessary to effectively support at-risk pregnant women.

Partnering with the Health Professions to Promote Prevention of an Alcohol-Exposed Pregnancy: Lessons Learned from an Academic⁻Organizational Collaborative

Background: Evidence-based strategies exist to train healthcare professionals to ask their patients and clients about alcohol use, and are successful. Implementation of these strategies utilizing a system-level approach has not been conducted nationwide. This case study reports on the success of academic partnerships with national health professional organizations to increase adoption of evidence-based strategies to prevent alcohol-exposed pregnancies. Methods: Authors reviewed and summarized multi-level strategies created as part of the developmental phase of this project in order to report successes and challenges. We applied the three principles of reflection, sense-making, and reciprocal learning, as identified in the practice change literature, to synthesize our experience. Results: There were five primary lessons learned as a result of this work: Development of technology-based training websites requires significant time to design, implement, and test; project ‘mission-drift’ is inevitable, but not necessarily unwelcome; time and effort is required to create and sustain functioning workgroups when there are different organizational cultures; and changing real-world practice is hard to do, yet changing the conversation on screening and brief intervention is possible. Conclusions: Use of multi-level strategies within an academic–professional organization model was successful in promoting awareness and education of healthcare professionals in the prevention of alcohol-exposed pregnancies.