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Updated: Jul 13, 2026
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A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting
Published on: January 12, 2018
Group prenatal care and perinatal outcomes: a randomized controlled trial
Jeannette R Ickovics1, Trace S Kershaw, Claire Westdahl
1School of Public Health, Yale University, 60 College Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8034, USA. Jeannette.Ickovics@Yale.edu
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|August 2, 2007
Summary
Group prenatal care significantly reduces preterm births and improves patient satisfaction among young women, offering equal or better outcomes at no additional cost. This innovative approach enhances prenatal knowledge and readiness for labor.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Public Health
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Traditional prenatal care models may not fully address the psychosocial needs of young pregnant women.
- Group prenatal care models integrate clinical assessment, education, and peer support.
- Evidence on the comparative effectiveness and cost-efficiency of group prenatal care is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of group prenatal care on pregnancy outcomes, psychosocial well-being, and patient satisfaction.
- To assess potential cost differences between group and standard prenatal care.
Main Methods:
- A multisite randomized controlled trial involving 1,047 pregnant women aged 14-25 years.
- Participants were randomized to either standard or group prenatal care, with exclusions for medical conditions.
- Group sessions included physical assessment, education, skills-building, and facilitated discussion.
Main Results:
- Group prenatal care significantly reduced preterm births by 33% (9.8% vs. 13.8%), with a greater effect in African-American women.
- Participants in group care reported less suboptimal care, improved prenatal knowledge, greater readiness for labor, and higher satisfaction.
- Breastfeeding initiation was higher (66.5% vs. 54.6%) with no differences in birth weight or costs.
Conclusions:
- Group prenatal care is an effective model for improving perinatal outcomes and psychosocial function in young women.
- This model achieves equal or better health outcomes without increased costs.
- Group prenatal care offers a valuable, cost-effective alternative to standard care.
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