Couple Intentions for Pregnancy: Effects on Maternal Health Behaviors and Newborn Health

Bryndl Hohmann-Marriott, Pennsylvania State University

Increasing numbers of children are being born to unmarried parents, most of whom may not have intended the pregnancy. This is a concern, as unintended pregnancies are linked with unhealthy behaviors during pregnancy and compromised health for the newborn. The two parents do not necessarily share fertility intentions, and the father’s intentions, particularly when they are not shared with the mother, may also be associated with health behaviors and outcomes. This study uses the ECLS-B to investigate the association of couple pregnancy intentions on maternal health behaviors and newborn health. Comparing married and cohabiting couples allows for an assessment of the couple context of pregnancy intentions and child health.