Addressing GHB use during pregnancy: barriers and solutions

This presentation explores the challenges of GHB withdrawal treatment for pregnant women. Our scoping review of 2024 reveals alarming trends: while women aged 18-40 represent the fastest-growing cohort of all populations seeking GHB withdrawal, treatment completion rates remain critically low (11%) among pregnant women. Many avoid treatment until postpartum, fearing child protection involvement. This research aims to quantify this issue statewide and investigate underlying causes. We’ll present qualitative data from Curran Place Mother Baby Unit, highlighting the clinical and social barriers to successful GHB withdrawal for pregnant women. By understanding these challenges, we can develop targeted interventions to improve treatment outcomes, potentially reducing instances of child removal. This project demonstrates our sector’s need to adapt to emerging substance use trends and their unique impacts on vulnerable populations.

Alex Johnson | Senior AOD Family Counsellor, Uniting Curran Place Adult and Mother Baby Withdrawal Unit, Uniting Vic Tas

Alex is a Senior Social Worker at Curran Place Adult and Mother Baby Withdrawal Unit. She worked in AOD assessment and case management support at Melbourne Magistrates Court before coming to Curran Place in 2021. She has a MSW from RMIT University and is currently a Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) candidate at La Trobe Univeristy, researching GHB withdrawal during pregnancy.

Rose McCrohan | Manager and Nurse Practitioner Uniting Curran Place Adult and Mother Baby Withdrawal Unit, Uniting Vic Tas

Rose McCrohan has worked in the AOD sector since 1992 including Pleasant View, Wellington House, YSAS, and Uniting since 2005. Rose became Victorians first AOD Nurse Practitioner in 2009. She regularly delivers masterclasses with Turning Point and ANMF for AOD nurses. She is the manager of Curran Place Adult and Mother Baby Withdrawal Unit.

Credited Persons

Sarah MacLean | Professor of Social Work and Social Policy, La Trobe University

Kate Seear | Professor Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Australian Research Council Future Fellow

The Pregnancy, FASD, Post-Partum stream is sponsored by