A randomized clinical trial of group prenatal care in two military settings

Abstract

A 3-year randomized clinical trial was conducted to test for differences in perinatal health behaviors, perinatal and infant health outcomes, and family health outcomes for women receiving group prenatal care (GPC) when compared to those receiving individual prenatal care. Women in GPC were almost 6 times more likely to receive adequate prenatal care than women in individual prenatal care and significantly more satisfied with their care. No differences were found by group for missed days of work, perceived stress, or social support. No differences in prenatal or postnatal depression symptoms were found in either group; however, women in GPC were significantly less likely to report feelings of guilt or shame. The findings suggest that women in GPC have more adequate care and no untoward effects were found with the model. Further study is important to evaluate long-term outcomes of GPC.