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The effects of working conditions and antenatal leave for the risk of premature birth in Berlin

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Abstract

Objectives

The influence a job—including its physical and psychological aspects—has on pregnant woman's chances of delivering prematurely.

Methods

Seven hundred and seven women who had given birth participated. Statements regarding her job and its stresses were obtained with a standardised questionnaire.

Results

Two hundred and thirty-seven of the 707 women delivered prematurely (<37 weeks), 471 at term. No increased incidence of premature deliveries was observed in working mothers or found in relation to physical stress. A link was observed due to a mother's dissatisfaction with her job (p<0.001).

Conclusion

With changes in the workplace and adherence to laws protecting pregnant women, effective factors are in place that help prevent premature births. A prerequisite for this is the pregnant woman's contentment with her work.

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Correspondence to W. Henrich.

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Henrich, W., Schmider, A., Fuchs, I. et al. The effects of working conditions and antenatal leave for the risk of premature birth in Berlin. Arch Gynecol Obstet 269, 37–39 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-003-0487-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-003-0487-8

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