Substance Use in Women

Women and men may face unique issues when it comes to substance use, as a result of both sex and gender. Sex differences result from biology, or being genetically female or male, while gender differences are based on culturally defined roles for men and women, as well as those who feel uncomfortable identifying with either category; such roles influence how people perceive themselves and how they interact with others ^{(ORWH, 2015; Wizemann & Pardue, 2001)}. Sex and gender can also interact with each other to create even more complex differences between men and women. For example, women and men sometimes use drugs for different reasons and respond to them differently, and substance use disorders may manifest differently in women than in men. A substance use disorder occurs when a person needs alcohol or a drug to function normally and stopping use leads to withdrawal symptoms. Some of the unique issues women who use drugs face are further complicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

More info on NIDA website