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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Paul Patrick, MPH, Alicia M. Lincoln, MSW, MSPH, Dick Lorenz, MSPH, and Suzanna Dooley, MS, ARNP. Maternal and Child Health Service, Oklahoma State Department of Health, 1000 NE Tenth St, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, 4052716761, paulp@health.ok.gov

PURPOSE: Having an unintended pregnancy is associated with a variety of adverse health outcomes.^1,2,3 Most research on this issue has been focused on the mother's intention and not that of the father. Information about paternal intention and how it may impact the pregnancy has not been widely documented.^1,2,3 The purpose of this study is to examine the influence that perception of paternal pregnancy intention has on health outcomes and behaviors, both during pregnancy and postpartum.

METHODS: Data were obtained from the Oklahoma Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System, 2000-2003. Descriptive and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess associations of paternal intention (classified as intended, unintended and ambivalent) with various maternal and infant characteristics. The survey asked questions about father's intention and verbalization of intention, mother's intention, and various birth outcomes and family behaviors. Oklahoma is one of few states to ask questions about father's pregnancy intention and postpartum support.

RESULTS: Father's intention of pregnancy was strongly linked to the mother's intention, prenatal care during the first trimester, maternal smoking during third trimester, initiating breastfeeding and paternal care-giving of the infant (all at p<.0000).

CONCLUSIONS: Perception of the father's intention can greatly impact post-pregnancy behaviors and the mother's own feelings about her pregnancy. Those fathers classified as ambivalent appear to be distinct and their influence may be masked when traditionally grouped as either intended or unintended. More surveillance and research in the area of the father's role in pregnancy intention needs to be performed to obtain a more complete picture.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session the participant in this session will be able to

(
• Recognize the impact that perceived paternal intention has on the health of the pregnancy and infant; (
• List three behaviors father’s intention is associated with; (
• Identify ways to incorporate this information into family planning settings.

Keywords: Family Planning,

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No