Story perspectives

70,000 Pregnant Mothers Reported for Drug Use: Advocates Warn

2/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Marshall Project reported that about 70,000 mothers were referred to law enforcement from 2018 to 2023 for alleged drug use during pregnancy.
Some referrals stemmed from prescribed medications, including fentanyl from epidurals and common over-the-counter drugs.
Advocates say these referrals may increase criminal penalties due to heightened surveillance of reproductive choices.
The report notes the complexities of drug use during pregnancy and its implications for women's rights.

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Story summary

The Marshall Project reported that about 70,000 mothers were referred to law enforcement from 2018 to 2023 for alleged drug use during pregnancy.
Some referrals stemmed from prescribed medications, including fentanyl from epidurals and common over-the-counter drugs.
Advocates say these referrals may increase criminal penalties due to heightened surveillance of reproductive choices.
The report notes the complexities of drug use during pregnancy and its implications for women's rights.