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Internal and external barriers to obtaining prenatal care
Social Work in Health Care
|January 1, 1983
Summary
Many women face barriers to prenatal medical care, with psychological factors like depression and fear being more common than financial issues. Understanding these reasons is crucial for improving maternal health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Public Health
- Social Work
Background:
- Limited research exists on why women forgo essential prenatal medical care.
- Understanding barriers to prenatal care is vital for improving maternal and infant health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the demographic factors and primary reasons women seek minimal prenatal medical care.
- To identify internal and external barriers preventing pregnant women from obtaining adequate medical attention.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective case review was conducted on 70 patients receiving minimal prenatal care at a metropolitan hospital.
- Data collected included demographic variables and self-reported reasons for not seeking timely medical care.
Main Results:
- Both internal (psychological) and external (socioeconomic) barriers impede access to prenatal care.
- Psychological factors such as depression, denial, and fear were cited more frequently than financial or transportation issues.
- Demographic variables were examined in relation to care-seeking behaviors.
Conclusions:
- Psychological barriers significantly impact women's ability to obtain prenatal medical care.
- Social work interventions within hospitals and communities are needed to address these multifaceted barriers.
- Targeted support addressing mental health and practical challenges can improve prenatal care utilization.