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A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting
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Romantic and sexual relationships of young adults born very preterm: An individual participant data meta-analysis

Marina Mendonça1, Yanyan Ni1,2, Nicole Baumann1,3,4

  • 1Department of Psychology, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.

Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)
|September 10, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Adults born very preterm (VP) or with very low birth weight (VLBW) have fewer romantic and sexual relationships. These outcomes may impact their long-term socioeconomic and health status.

Area of Science:

  • Perinatal Epidemiology
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Reproductive Health

Background:

  • Adults born very preterm (VP; <32 weeks gestation) or with very low birth weight (VLBW; <1500 g) may experience long-term challenges.
  • Social functioning, including romantic and sexual relationships, is crucial for adult well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare romantic and sexual relationship experiences of adults born VP/VLBW with term-born controls.
  • To identify biological and environmental factors influencing these relationships in VP/VLBW adults.

Main Methods:

  • Individual participant data (IPD) meta-analysis of longitudinal studies.
  • Included 1606 VP/VLBW adults and 1659 term-born controls (mean age ≥18 years).
  • Utilized a one-stage IPD meta-analysis approach following PRISMA-IPD guidelines.

Main Results:

  • VP/VLBW adults were less likely to be in romantic relationships (OR 0.49), married/cohabiting (OR 0.70), or sexually active (OR 0.21).
  • VP/VLBW individuals were more likely to have first intercourse after 18 years (OR 1.93).
  • VP/VLBW males and those with neurosensory impairment had the lowest likelihood of romantic relationships.

Conclusions:

  • Adults born VP/VLBW exhibit less optimal social functioning regarding romantic and sexual relationships.
  • Findings suggest potential implications for socioeconomic and health outcomes in this population.
Abstract

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