Dr Teresa Orengo, doctor of addictive behaviours. Coordinator UCA Grao. Malvarrosa Clinic dept. Valencia Health Region. Valencia.

Dr Teresa Orengo using the concept of stigma raised a central issue in the drugs consumption realised by women since it is still a hidden problem that exists and affects the addicted woman and her entire family environment. Also, she pointed out that not only are the biological difference what separate women and men, but also it exists social and environmental factors that only affect the female gender. Women that suffer from this disease face a social sanction that can diminish their motivation to seek treatment, a situation that they observe daily in the centres that they coordinate.

Among the women’s factors that could influence in the treatment, it was highlighted all questions related to the pregnancy and child care as a priority. Along with this, financial independence and the way in which they enter treatment are variables to be taken into account in order to face their recovery.

Moreover, the professionals who treat this group have found that more than half of women with some type of drug abuse suffer gender violence; however there are no specialized resources that consider all these particularities.