Review of the current and potential addictions needs of females has brought to light some issues for consideration, including the unavailability of research specific to the incidence and prevalence of female addiction and the greater health and medical care requirements for females, especially pregnant females, seeking treatment services. Within the general population, there are several sub-populations of women with special needs: women and infants with AIDS; pregnant drug addicts and their infants; women with young children; and women in the criminal justice system. The numbers of females admitted to the Illinois treatment system has remained relatively static over time. Regrettably, whenever the general treatment system lacks capacity, female admissions are often the first to decline. 3 exhibits and appendix