Substance Use in Pregnant People - Optimizing Retention in Treatment

Launched by WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE · Jul 29, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on helping pregnant and new mothers who are dealing with substance use disorder (SUD), which means struggling with drugs or alcohol. Using substances during and after pregnancy can be very dangerous, and many people stop getting treatment once their baby is born. This study wants to find better ways to support these women so they can stay in treatment and keep their recovery going, especially during the challenging time after birth. The researchers are testing two ideas: first, making sure patients get help with important life needs like housing, transportation, or childcare; and second, offering small rewards or prizes when patients meet their recovery goals, like attending appointments or staying in care.

Women who are pregnant or have given birth within the last three years and have a substance use disorder may be eligible to join. Participants will be asked about their social needs and connected with helpful services, and some will take part in the reward program to encourage them to stay engaged in treatment. This study aims to improve health and recovery by providing extra support during pregnancy and after birth, when people are most at risk. The findings will help shape future research to better support mothers in recovery and reduce risks like overdose.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Confirmed viable intrauterine pregnancy at any gestational age, or within three years postpartum
• • SUD as defined in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders or clinician documentation
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Decline follow-up care at study site
• • Require immediate hospitalization for unstable medical or psychiatric conditions making them clinically unsuitable to participate in a research study