Pregnancy Prevalence and Outcomes in U.S. Jails

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Criminal Justice Health
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• Limited data exists on pregnant individuals admitted to U.S. jails.
• Understanding pregnancy outcomes in carceral settings is crucial for maternal and infant health.
• This study addresses a gap in knowledge regarding a vulnerable incarcerated population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the number of pregnant individuals admitted to U.S. jails.
• To describe the outcomes of pregnancies ending during incarceration.
• To assess the feasibility of collecting such data.

Main Methods:

• Prospective data collection from six U.S. jails over 12 months.
• Inclusion of the five largest U.S. jails in the study sample.
• Monthly reporting of de-identified, aggregate data on admissions and pregnancy outcomes.

Main Results:

• 1,622 admissions of pregnant individuals were recorded.
• Of 224 pregnancies ending in custody, 64% resulted in live births, 18% in miscarriages, and 15% in induced abortions.
• Births in custody had high rates of cesarean delivery (33%) and preterm birth (8%); two stillbirths and one newborn death occurred.

Conclusions:

• Approximately 3% of female jail admissions are pregnant individuals, estimating nearly 55,000 annual admissions nationally.
• Tracking pregnancy statistics in jails is feasible and essential for this overlooked population.
• Findings highlight the need for improved healthcare and support for pregnant individuals in carceral settings.