Abstract
Background: Health assessment for partners of pregnant women has not been routinely offered. Work in the area of smoking cessation suggests that a partner's health habits have a strong influence on the health habits of a pregnant woman. Smoking, alcohol abuse, depression, battering, and household firearms can adversely affect the health of the expectant mother and the infant.
Methods: Four methods of partner assessment were pilot tested: office visit with a family physician, office visit with a registered nurse, telephone survey conducted by the registered nurse, and mailed questionnaire. Written feedback and referrals were provided to all study participants, and verbal feedback and referrals were provided to those who completed in-person or telephone interviews. A chart review was conducted to determine participation bias.
Results: Thirty-five pregnant women and 25 partners participated in the study. Self-administered questionnaires and telephone interviews were preferred by study participants. The study group was healthier than the general population. Five partners reported troublesome drinking behavior, and 1 reported smoking two packs of cigarettes per day.
Conclusions: Health assessment of partners of pregnant women seems promising for uncovering health problems that would be likely to have an adverse impact on the health of the family. Further development of assessment and intervention strategies is needed.
