[Socioeconomic inequality affects pregnancy and birth outcomes in Denmark]

Abstract

The Danish healthcare system offers free and equal access to healthcare, including free preventive maternity care and birth assistance. Nevertheless, in Denmark, women of low socioeconomic status, especially women with a low level of education, have an increased risk of obstetric complications including low birth weight, preterm birth, stillbirth and congenital malformations. Smoking is a significant mediator but cannot alone explain the associations. Inadequate health literacy is probably an influencing factor. Individualised care is offered in Denmark, but the effect has not yet been analysed.