Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

4-29-2014

Comments

Presented at: ACOG, 2014 Chicago Illinois.

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction: Paternal support during pregnancy is considered a predictor of positive birth outcomes. Little research has focused on partner involvement and its impact on maternal health habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption during pregnancy.

Methods:

  • This was a cross sectional study

  • Pregnant women (n=198) between the ages of 18 – 44 and their partners (n=60)

  • Women who identified their partner as their main support

  • Norbeck Social Support Questionnaire (scale from 5 - 35)

  • ANOVA and Student’s t-test were used to evaluate Norbeck scores and smoking/ drinking status

  • Study personnel interviewed subjects to assess reliance on a partner

    Results: Average support score for women who smoked was 30.5 versus 32.45 for nonsmoking women (p value = 0.23). Women who reported never drinking during pregnancy had an average support score of 32.5, versus 31.3 for women who reported drinking 1-2 times/year, 31.6 for women who reported drinking 2-4 times/month, and 33.2 for women who reported drinking 2-5 times/week (p-value = 0.27). Women who reported relying on their partner were less likely to smoke, 5.1% versus 17.9% (p=0.015) and use alcohol, 26.1% versus 42.9% (p=0.071).

    Conclusions: There is no statistically significant difference in the amount of social support that pregnant women who smoke or drink alcohol feel compared to women who do not smoke or drink. Partner support on the Norbeck was not associated with health behaviors. Increased self-reported partner reliance is associated with decreased rates of smoking and alcohol in pregnant women.

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