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Understanding the multidimensional trajectory of psychosocial maternal risk factors causing preterm birth: A

Kavita Batra1, Jennifer Pharr2, John O Olawepo3

  • 1Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Office of Research, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.

Asian Journal of Psychiatry
|December 4, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Psychosocial factors like racism and lack of support contribute to preterm birth through antenatal stress. Improving social environments and prenatal care is crucial for prevention.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Health
  • Maternal-Fetal Medicine
  • Social Determinants of Health

Background:

  • Psychosocial factors are complex risk factors for preterm birth.
  • Understanding their mediating mechanisms is key for effective interventions.
  • This systematic review examines psychosocial maternal factors and their role in preterm birth.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review U.S.-based studies on psychosocial maternal factors and preterm birth.
  • To identify interactions between psychosocial factors and their impact on pregnancy outcomes.
  • To elucidate the mediating mechanisms linking psychosocial factors to preterm birth.

Main Methods:

  • Searched major databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Medline, Cochrane) for U.S. studies (1989-2019).
  • Screened titles, abstracts, and full-texts for eligibility.
  • Utilized NIH assessment tool for quality appraisal of 9 included studies.

Main Results:

  • Nine studies identified psychosocial factors including racial disparity, lifetime racism, neighborhood disadvantage, lack of partner support, childhood maltreatment, homelessness, and marital status.
  • Antenatal stress emerged as a common pathway for psychosocial mediators leading to preterm birth.
  • Included studies focused on diverse psychosocial stressors impacting pregnant women.

Conclusions:

  • Maternal stress is a critical factor in preterm birth, influenced by psychosocial elements.
  • Interventions should focus on improving prenatal care, housing, and social support systems.
  • Psychological counseling and enhanced maternal health monitoring are vital, particularly for minority groups.
Abstract

Keywords:
Antenatal stressLife coursePreterm birthPsych-osocial factorsPsychosocial counselingSystematic reviewVariations

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