PERINATAL SUBSTANCE-ABUSE - PERSONAL TRIUMPHS AND TRAGEDIES

The problem of perinatal substance abuse is one of complexity, dilemma, and disturbance for the various professionals involved. To resolve the problem, Ms. Ruhle argues, we must understand the nature of addiction and become intimately familiar with the experiences of the real women and children involved. From the perspective of a public health nurse, Ms. Ruhle narrates the stories of a sampling of her substance abusing clients and their children. In doing so, she illustrates the complexity of the problem and provides a human context within which to discuss the problem of perinatal substance abuse.