Caring for Pregnant Women Who Use Drugs: Insights from the Stepping Stones Study
We're interested in identifying what those patterns are really. What we know from previous research is that there's a little bit of variation, but the majority are kind of referring back to the primary nice guidelines which deal with complex care of women who are pregnant, who also use drugs.
What does it take to provide the best care for pregnant women who use drugs? In this compelling bonus episode of Addictions Edited, Dr. Polly Radcliffe and Dr. Emma Smith dive into their groundbreaking research as part of the nihr-funded Stepping Stones study. This project, a collaboration between Kings College London, University of Huddersfield, University of Stirling, and Homerton University Hospital Foundation Trust, aims to uncover the most effective ways to support these women and their infants. Led by Dr.
Radcliffe and Professor Helen Cheyne, the study brings together experts from various fields to tackle this complex issue. Throughout the interview, Polly and Emma share insights on a range of topics, from the creation of an expert advisory group to the review of clinical guidelines and existing interventions. They also discuss their interviews with women who use drugs during pregnancy and post-birth, as well as focus group discussions with staff who work closely with these women.
The conversation highlights the importance of woman-centered care and explores how audio recordings and drawings are used to capture unique care journeys. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the variations in outcomes for women across different regions of the UK and the distinctive patterns in care that emerge from the study. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in addiction research, maternal health, or policy-making.
Whether you're a researcher, healthcare professional, or simply curious about the topic, you'll find valuable takeaways in this engaging discussion.