Fear of Childbirth and Anti-Fat Bias in Pregnant People
Author Information
Author(s): Roosevelt Lee, Maguire Sarah, Sharma Akshay, Zielinski Ruth
Primary Institution: University of Michigan
Hypothesis
This study investigates the impact of perceived anti-fat bias on fear of childbirth among pregnant people.
Conclusion
Perceived anti-fat bias from healthcare providers is associated with increased fear of childbirth, especially among Black pregnant individuals.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants perceiving anti-fat bias reported higher fear of childbirth.
- Black participants experiencing anti-fat bias reported even higher fear of childbirth.
- Interventions to educate providers on anti-fat bias could improve pregnant people's experiences.
Takeaway
Pregnant people who feel judged for their weight by doctors are more scared of giving birth, which can make their experience worse.
Methodology
Participants completed surveys measuring perceptions of anti-fat bias and fear of childbirth, with data collected from three academic prenatal centers and social media.
Potential Biases
The study may not fully capture the relationships between demographic data and anti-fat bias due to the sample size.
Limitations
The sample was relatively small and lacked diversity outside of Black participants, and no biometric data were collected.
Participant Demographics
More than half identified as Black, approximately one-third as White, and most had low household incomes.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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