Effects of social supports on attitudes, health behaviors and obtaining prenatal care

Abstract

The influence of social support on attitudes, health behaviors and attaining prenatal care was assessed in 300 postpartum patients. Demographic, medical, sociocultural, attitudinal and behavioral factors were assessed by interview and review of the medical chart. Three discrete social support factors (intimacy, comfort, security) were identified by factor analysis. The presence of social support was correlated with positive prenatal attitudes, not using drugs, and adequate health resources. Stepwise multiple-regression analysis demonstrated that one social support factor (intimacy), two health behaviors (not drinking and not smoking while pregnant), and parity accounted for 22% of the variance in amount of prenatal care.