| dc.description.abstract | Background: Worldwide, it is estimated that 155 -250 million people between the ages of 15
and 64 use illicit substances; however, an accurate estimation of illicit drug use during
pregnancy is not available as this is underreported. The South African National Drug Master
Plan (NDMP) reports rising illicit drug use among pregnant women
Early initiation and regular antenatal care prevent or decrease many risk factors caused by
the use of illicit drugs, leading to improved outcomes for mothers and infants. Pregnant
women who use illicit drugs are less likely to engage with health services due to various
barriers, of which stigma is particularly pervasive. Stigmatising attitudes from health care
providers may lead to reduced management and care. There is limited South African
information regarding midwives’ attitudes toward pregnant women who use illicit
substances.
Aim: To describe midwives’ attitudes toward pregnant women who use illicit substances in
the Metro East sub-district of Cape Town.
Study setting and population: Primary, secondary, and tertiary maternity services in the
Metro East sub-district, Cape Town. All midwives (N=146) in all facilities in the sub-district
were included (total population sampling).
Method: A quantitative approach with a survey design, using a previously validated
questionnaire, was utilised. Face-to-face data collection was conducted. Each questionnaire
was checked for completeness. Data analysis was done using SPSS.
Ethical considerations: This study strictly adhered to ethical principles. Ethical approval was
obtained from the Biomedical Research Ethics Committee, UWC, and Western Cape
Department of Health Research Committee. The research adheres to the Protection of
Personal Information Act 4 of 2013. Voluntary participation and the right to withdraw at any
point during the study was respected and respondent data was anonymised.
Results: The study had a response rate of 69%. Most respondents were female and 51.4%
were in the < 41 age group. 15.8% of respondents had one year or less experience, with a
mean of 10 years of experience. | en_US |
