Publication Date

4-25-2021

Document Type

Article

First Advisor

Rudnicki, Mary D.

Degree Name

B.S. (Bachelor of Science)

Legacy Department

School of Nursing

Abstract

Pregnancy is a time in which an individual is particularly susceptible to the negative effects of health disparities, although it is unclear to what extent this may impact the pregnancy and the health of the mother and fetus. This literature review compiles research from a number of peer-reviewed journals to explore the impact of poverty-related health disparities on pregnancy as a whole. Through this review it has been shown that pregnant women living below the poverty line are impacted by poor nutrition, lack of prenatal care, domestic violence, pollution, stress, and lack of social support. These health disparities can cause difficulties with the pregnancy and delivery, the most common of which include low birth weight, preterm labor, and altered fetal development. It is suggested that healthcare professionals, including nurses, should educate themselves regarding the risks associated with low-income pregnant women and should be prepared to properly assess, treat, and provide resources to these patients.

Extent

27 pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text

Download

Share

COinS