Talk to the Veterans Crisis Line now
U.S. flag
An official website of the United States government

VA Health Systems Research

Go to the VA ORD website
Go to the QUERI website

HSR&D Citation Abstract

Search | Search by Center | Search by Source | Keywords in Title

Posttraumatic stress disorder and pregnancy health: preliminary update and implications

Morland L, Goebert D, Onoye J, Frattarelli L, Derauf C, Herbst M, Matsu C, Friedman M. Posttraumatic stress disorder and pregnancy health: preliminary update and implications. Psychosomatics. 2007 Jul 31; 48(4):304-8.

Related HSR&D Project(s)

Dimensions for VA is a web-based tool available to VA staff that enables detailed searches of published research and research projects.

If you have VA-Intranet access, click here for more information vaww.hsrd.research.va.gov/dimensions/

VA staff not currently on the VA network can access Dimensions by registering for an account using their VA email address.
   Search Dimensions for VA for this citation
* Don't have VA-internal network access or a VA email address? Try searching the free-to-the-public version of Dimensions



Abstract:

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is pervasive among women of childbearing age. The cascade of behavioral health and neuroendocrine changes commonly associated with PTSD may adversely affect perinatal health. The authors examined the relationship between PTSD and perinatal health in a sample of 101 women seeking prenatal care on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. Trauma, PTSD, and psychological and behavioral health were assessed during prenatal care. Pregnancy health, labor and delivery information, and birth outcomes were abstracted from medical records post-partum. Findings suggest that women with PTSD entering pregnancy are at increased risk for engaging in high-risk health behaviors, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, substance use, poor prenatal care, and excessive weight gain. Authors discuss clinical and research implications.





Questions about the HSR website? Email the Web Team

Any health information on this website is strictly for informational purposes and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any condition.