Dual Reality: Opioid Use Disorder among Pregnant Women and Their Children

Abstract

Individuals who experience a problematic pattern of opioid use or dependence suffer from opioid use disorder (OUD) ("Opioid Use Disorder"). The experience of OUD among pregnant women is unjust because it results not only in a lack of opportunity to fully function in a dignified life for themselves, but also for the child, leading to thwarted capabilities. In the subsequent paper, I will discuss the harms experienced by these women and their children. I will then move to address some of the structures that perpetuate these harms in the form of hierarchical relationships, rules and controlling images. Finally, I will turn to one possible recommendation to eliminate some of the harm experienced by these individuals and future work that can be addressed in this area. [From introductory section]