The article “Cannabis and Nicotine Substance Use Coercion During the Perinatal Period” by Groves et al. (2025) explores how intimate partner violence intersects with substance use during pregnancy and postpartum. While cannabis and nicotine are often discussed as individual health concerns, this study highlights a more complex reality, some pregnant individuals are coerced into substance use, or prevented from quitting, by abusive partners. Through interviews with survivors and IPV advocates, the research identifies several key patterns: partners may control access to substances, use shame or stigma as manipulation, sabotage cessation attempts, and even weaponize systems like child protective services and health care to maintain control. The study emphasizes that substance use during pregnancy is not always a free choice, but in many cases—a survival strategy within a context of trauma and coercion.
Reflection for FASD Prevention Conversation Facilitators
- Strengthen pathways to safety first, wellness second. Conversations about substance use must be deeply rooted in understanding relationship dynamics, system-based fears, and the constant surveillance faced by perinatal women.
- Shift from “Why aren’t you stopping?” to “What might be getting in the way?” Many individuals want to quit but are actively prevented from doing so.
- Recognize coercion as a barrier to autonomy, not just physical safety. Substance use may be a coping mechanism for trauma or one of the few things they feel control over.
- Avoid using shame-based messaging in prevention dialogues. This study clearly shows that shame is already being weaponized against pregnant individuals, our role is to replace that with dignity and empowerment.