Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Challenges And Resources Available For Mothers In Opiate Recovery: A Qualitative Study, Michelle A. Suarez, Wendy Horton-Bierema, Caitlyn E. Bodine

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: Opiate abuse and addiction in women during childbearing years has led to a sharp increase in neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). Babies born with NAS are at risk for significant health and developmental deficits. Through understanding the challenges experienced by mothers in opiate recovery, and the resources available to this group, sensitive and effective treatment can be developed to ameliorate the impact of NAS on the child and the family.

Method: This qualitative interview study provides insight into the experience of becoming a mother for women in opiate recovery.

Results: Themes from the interviews include deep love …

Journey Interrupted: A Phenomenological Exploration Of Miscarriage, Marit A. Watson, Vanessa D. Jewell, Sarah L. Smith

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Background: Miscarriage is a significant life event that impacts occupational performance, identity, and competence and that influences perceptions of motherhood. Because of the lack of social rituals often attributed to the death of a loved one, miscarriages may result in disenfranchised grief, which impedes coping.

Methods: This phenomenological study explored the impact of miscarriage on relationships, perceptions of motherhood, and the meaning of occupation in the context of grief. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews (N = 4) and completion of a brief demographic questionnaire. The interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim, and reviewed to ensure accuracy. Using inductive thematic …