Learning Objective #1: identify the health concerns and health behaviors of pregnant women aged ”Ż35 | |||
Learning Objective #2: compare the differences of health concerns and health behaviors between pregnant women aged ”Ż35 and those younger than 35 years of age |
This is a cross-sectional study aims to examine the differences of health concerns and health behaviors between pregnant women aged ≥35 and those younger than 35 years of age. A total of 235 primiparae Chinese women were recruited from an antenatal clinic of a large regional hospital in Hong Kong to complete a questionnaire. When the advanced age pregnant women are compared with those younger than 35, they are more likely to have tertiary education (42.6% vs. 28.7%), higher monthly family income ≥ HK$40,001 (40.5% vs. 15.3%). They are also more likely to concern about °„possibility of miscarriage' (63.8% vs. 45/9%), Down's syndrome (70.2% vs. 37.8%), structural defect of fetus (78.7% vs. 54.1%), the physical demand in caring the newborn (61.7% vs. 45.4%), and health recovery after childbirth (63.8% vs. 42.7%). However, they are more likely to take up health promotion behaviors, such as °„take nutritious food' (100%), avoid °„junk food' (72.3%) and °„wearing tight clothing and high heel shoes' (100%). The advanced age women have lower anxiety state score than their counter part (m=37.9 vs. 40.1) although it is not statistical difference. The results of this study provide the background for improving maternity care catering the specific needs of these advanced age pregnant women.