Examining barriers to and motivations for substance abuse treatment among pregnant women: does urban-rural residence matter?

Barriers to entering and motivations for substance abuse treatment were examined among rural and urban pregnant women. All pregnant women entering inpatient detoxification at the University of Kentucky Medical Center were approached about participating in a study on health and well-being. One hundred fourteen (N = 114) pregnant women voluntarily participated. Treatment barriers and motivators were measured with open-ended questions. The Treatment Attitude Profile quantitatively measured motivation. Both groups reported approximately two treatment barriers. Top treatment motivators were pregnancy (65.8%), needing help (23.7%), family (18.4%), and being tired of the lifestyle (16.7%). Overall, Treatment Attitude Profile scores were fairly high (Mean = 74.3, SD = 10.7), representing motivation for treatment. Multivariate analyses revealed a significant negative relationship between treatment motivation and gestational age (β = -0.233; p = 0.012), and a positive relationship between treatment motivation and reporting an acceptability barrier (e.g., denial, stigma) (β = 0.202; p = 0.024). Few between group differences existed in barriers and treatment motivation. Individuals residing in rural areas have unique beliefs, social ties, attitudes, and financial hardships. Research about the role of these factors in treatment access and motivation could be used to minimize treatment barriers.