Stress and Substance Use during Pregnancy for Alaska Native and Rural Alaskan Women

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between stress and environmental context on alcohol and tobacco use behaviors during pregnancy among Alaskan women (n=10,520). Alcohol and tobacco use during pregnancy have been shown to negatively impact maternal and fetal health, yet these behaviors are still evidenced despite increased awareness of these risks. Research highlights that stress exposure may increase alcohol and tobacco use, yet the relationship between stress and negative health behaviors during pregnancy is largely under-examined in rural contexts and among indigenous populations. This study finds that stress is significantly associated with higher odds of binge drinking and tobacco use during pregnancy for Alaskan women. Further, living in a rural community or living in a community with restrictions on the sale, importation or possession of alcohol is significantly associated with binge drinking and tobacco use behaviors.