Preconception Counselling and Anxiety in Women
Author Information
Author(s): de Jong-Potjer LC, Elsinga J, le Cessie S, van der Pal-de Bruin KM, Knuistingh Neven A, Buitendijk SE, Assendelft WJJ
Primary Institution: Leiden University Medical Center
Hypothesis
Does GP-initiated preconception counselling induce anxiety in women?
Conclusion
Preconception counselling from a GP reduced anxiety after participation, without increasing anxiety during pregnancy.
Supporting Evidence
- Women who attended preconception counselling reported lower anxiety levels after the session.
- Anxiety scores decreased significantly after counselling, especially among women with lower education.
- Women of non-Dutch origin showed a significant reduction in anxiety after counselling.
Takeaway
This study shows that talking to your doctor about pregnancy before you get pregnant can help you feel less worried.
Methodology
Randomised trial comparing usual care versus GP-initiated preconception counselling, measuring anxiety levels before and after counselling.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias due to GPs excluding women they deemed emotionally burdened.
Limitations
The study may have selection bias as participants were relatively well-educated and self-selected for interest in PCC.
Participant Demographics
Women aged 18-40 from 54 GP practices in the Netherlands.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.02
Confidence Interval
[2.4–4.8]
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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