Best Practices for Nutrition Care of Pregnant Women in Prison. (July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shlafer, Rebecca J.; Stang, Jamie; Dallaire, Danielle; Forestell, Catherine A.; Hellerstedt, Wendy
• Is Part Of: Journal of correctional health care. Volume 23:Number 3(2017)
• Page Start: 297
• Page End: 304
• Publication Date: 2017-07
• Subjects: female inmates -- pregnancy -- women's health -- nutrition -- correctional health care; Prisoners -- Health and hygiene -- United States -- Periodicals; Prisoners -- Medical care -- United States -- Periodicals; 365.667
• DOI: 10.1177/1078345817716567
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1078-3458

Abstract

Approximately 3% to 4% of women are pregnant upon their admission to prison. Pregnant inmates present unique challenges for correctional health providers, including meeting the nutritional needs for healthy pregnancy outcomes. The authors outline six recommendations for nutrition care for pregnant inmates, including (1) test for pregnancy; (2) prescribe prenatal vitamins; (3) follow nutrition recommendations outlined by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics; (4) provide additional food, monitor over time, and allow for modifications to meet pregnancy needs; (5) ensure regular access to water; and (6) provide inmates with resources and education on healthy diet. The degree to which correctional facilities address the nutritional needs of pregnant women may have short- and long-term consequences for the health of women and their offspring.