Based on INSERM epidemiological surveys, the authors study the risk of prematurity related to the maternal way of life. The prematurity rate is higher in women younger than 20 years, in women of foreign overseas origin, in unmarried women living in couple or alone, and in women of low socio-economic classes. Work during pregnancy is not in itself a risk factor as women at home present a higher prematurity rate than women at work. However, the strenuous working conditions, which concern about 20% of pregnant women at work, lead to a higher prematurity rate. Other factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, travelling and housework are studied. The role of psychological modifications linked to pregnancy is discussed, particularly in women who do not present any medical factor. From these data, suggestions are made in order to improve prematurity prevention.
Female France