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Adherence with drug therapy in pregnancy
1Child Health Research Institute, Departments of Pediatrics and Medicine, Children's Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada N6C 2V5.
Obstetrics and Gynecology International
|January 14, 2012
Summary
Medication nonadherence is common in pregnant women due to concerns about fetal well-being. Providing clear, evidence-based information preconceptionally can improve adherence and maternal-fetal health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Pharmacology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Medication nonadherence is a prevalent issue among pregnant women.
- Nonadherence can compromise therapeutic goals, impacting both maternal and fetal health.
- Pregnant women face unique challenges balancing disease management with concerns about medication safety for the fetus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the complexities of medication adherence in pregnancy.
- To emphasize the potential negative consequences of nonadherence for maternal and fetal outcomes.
- To underscore the importance of providing evidence-based information to pregnant women regarding medication use.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing data on medication adherence in pregnancy.
- Analysis of factors influencing medication-taking behavior in pregnant populations.
- Identification of challenges specific to pregnant women regarding medication use.
Main Results:
- Pregnant women may exhibit conflicting motivations: maintaining maternal health versus protecting fetal well-being.
- Fear and anxiety regarding potential teratogenic effects are significant drivers of nonadherence.
- Lack of adequate information contributes to misperceptions about medication safety.
Conclusions:
- Addressing medication nonadherence in pregnant women requires a nuanced approach.
- Evidence-based information, particularly provided preconceptionally, is crucial for informed decision-making.
- Improving adherence can lead to better maternal and fetal health outcomes by ensuring therapeutic goals are met.
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