Abstract
Throughout history, virtually every society that has permitted the personal use of psychoactive substances has had different usage rules for men and women. These differences, dating back at least as far as the Code of Hammurabi, are based on deeply held ideas about the differential effects of alcohol and other drugs on each gender. Although there are many similarities in the way psychoactive substance abuse and dependence affects men and women, there are also profound differences. These differences are shaped in large part by social and environmental factors and are also based on genetic, physiological, and psychological differences. This presentation summarizes special features of alcohol and other drug problems in women along with patterns of dual diagnosis particular to women. It also discusses how these problems relate to women's sexual and reproductive functioning and the victimization of women. The contribution of these problems to the current public policy discussion on best how to meet the needs of pregnant addicts is also examined.
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