Prenatal Patient Knowledge of the Interpregnancy Interval [33A]. (May 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bergin, Ashlee; Rankin, Kristin; Stumbras, Katrina; Handler, Arden; Haider, Sadia
• Is Part Of: Obstetrics and gynecology. Volume 129 (2017)Supplement 1
• Publication Date: 2017-05
• Subjects: Obstetrics -- Periodicals; Gynecology -- Periodicals; 618
• DOI: 10.1097/01.AOG.0000514267.72508.60
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0029-7844

Abstract

Abstract : INTRODUCTION: Short and long interpregnancy intervals (IPIs) are associated with adverse perinatal and maternal outcomes. While patients receive contraceptive counseling, it is unclear if they receive counseling about the IPI. Because little is known about women's knowledge regarding pregnancy spacing, this survey study aimed to determine whether pregnant women are familiar with the IPI. METHODS: Among patients greater than 24 weeks' gestation seeking prenatal care at the University of Illinois at Chicago Center for Women's Health between November 2014 and April 2015, 330 patients were approached and 281 completed the survey. Chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression were used for data analysis. RESULTS: Forty-nine of the 281 women (17.8%) reported knowing that the recommended IPI is between 18 and 24 months. Women with a high school education or less were less likely to be familiar with the IPI (OR 0.38 95% CI 0.17-0.82) or know the recommended IPI (OR 0.4 95% CI 0.19-0.86) compared to women that have completed some college, a bachelor's, or a graduate degree. Compared to non-Hispanic White race/ethnicity, non-Hispanic Black race/ethnicity was associated with a decreased likelihood of familiarity with the IPI (0.33 95% CI 0.14-0.76) and knowledge that short IPIs can adversely affect maternal health (OR 0.23 95% CI 0.09-0.62). CONCLUSION: Women receiving prenatal care did not know the recommended IPI nor the potential for adverse outcomes with short IPIs. Prenatal care providers should discuss reproductive life plans, and include discussion about the IPI to help women achieve optimal birth spacing, improved birth outcomes, and fewer unintended pregnancies.