Work

Who receives support during pregnancy? Variation by intendedness

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Social support makes a vital contribution to health and life outcomes, particularly during the transition to motherhood in young adulthood, an often-challenging experience. Women should have the right not only to bear children but also to raise them in a secure environment, which is often aided by support. This study gives attention to how pregnancy intendedness contributes to pregnant women's receipt of support. Using novel data from a weekly survey of 18- to 22-year-old women over two and a half years, I investigate how intendedness is associated with the receipt of support and how support types vary throughout pregnancy. This study reveals new insight into the beginning trajectories of young mothers and highlights variation in the provision of support within social networks. Women with intended pregnancies are less likely to receive social support during pregnancy compared to those with unintended pregnancies. A lack of support may impact the health of both mother and child.

Source: Social Science Research

DOI: 10.1016/j.ssresearch.2024.103065

Author: Lauren Newmyer

Institution: Bowling Green State University

Language: English

Topic: Reproductive Health and Contraception

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Gender equality, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,060