Examining the factors associated with substance use during pregnancy in low socio-economic status communities in the Western Cape province, South Africa

Abstract

Substance use in South Africa, specifically in the Western Cape remains a huge social problem for the entire population generally and pregnant women in particular given their unique vulnerabilities. There are many factors associated with substance use during pregnancy, such as race, age, unemployment, and stress. The study aimed to examine factors associated with substance use during pregnancy using a quantitative methodology and a bio-ecological theoretical framework to explore the associated factors. Participants were selected using purposive sampling. The larger study within which this study is located is a cross sectional study conducted across a range of low-income communities in the Cape Metropole.