Voluntary Pregnancy Screening at Syringe Exchanges: A Feasibility Study

The purpose of this study was to explore the feasibility of offering voluntary pregnancy screening at syringe exchange programs, using the National Implementation Research Network Hexagon Discussion and Analysis Tool. We conducted a survey among female syringe exchange clients, which assessed perceived needs, values, and behavioral intentions for parenting and entering treatment if they received a positive pregnancy screen, and surveys among staff and core volunteers to assess organizational fit, capacity, and needed supports. Participants and staff reported that pregnancy screening was needed at syringe exchange and that capacity needs to be expanded to provide services. Pregnancy screening at syringe exchanges holds the potential to lead to early detection of pregnancy. Early detection of pregnancy among women who inject drugs may result in improved prenatal care, including substance use treatment and treatment of infectious diseases, for women who would otherwise be unlikely to receive prenatal care.