Impact of health literacy and subjective happiness in pregnancy on neonatal anthropometry: a cohort study.

Abstract

Background: Maternal health literacy (MHL) and happiness can significantly impact pregnancy outcomes (POs) and neonatal health. This study primarily aimed to assess the level of maternal health literacy. Additionally, we sought to determine how maternal health literacy, happiness, socio-demographics, and pregnancy outcomes influence neonatal anthropometrics, thereby providing a more comprehensive understanding of the determinants of maternal and neonatal health.

Methods: In a 2-year cohort study on 591 pregnant women with normal pregnancies, we recorded the maternal socio-demographic and obstetric factors. Moreover, the Maternal Health Literacy and Pregnancy Outcomes Questionnaire (MHLAPQ) and Happiness Questionnaire were used to gather health-related information. After delivery, the neonatal anthropometric measurements, including body weight (BW), supine length (SL), and head circumference (HC), were recorded at birth.

Results: Among the 591 participants, 338 (57.2%) were in the 20-29-year age group. The mean maternal health literacy (MHL) score was 57.34 ± 8.67. MHL scores were associated with maternal and paternal education and occupation, as well as a history of miscarriage. Pregnancy outcomes were linked to maternal and paternal education and employment status, while higher happiness scores were found among housewives. BW showed significant differences based on maternal occupation and a history of stillbirth, while SL varied significantly with maternal occupation. Positive correlations were identified between BW and MHL, as well as between PO, MHL, and maternal happiness scores.

Conclusion: In summary, our results revealed that MHL and happiness are important factors in improving the POs and neonatal health. In addition, maternal and paternal education and occupation were found to affect the MHL scores.