UCSF

Background

Occupational and environmental exposures during the prenatal period may be associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes and lifelong health effects. Yet, identification and evaluation of these potential hazards is lacking in routine obstetric care.

Aims

To assess the feasibility of incorporating a self-administered occupational and environmental exposure questionnaire into obstetric clinics.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey assessed prenatal clinic patients at a public hospital who were currently employed and <20 weeks gestation. Questionnaires evaluated job characteristics, workplace and hobby exposures, protective equipment use and symptoms during pregnancy.

Results

Of 69 participants (96% response rate), 46% were predominantly Spanish-speaking. Primary occupations were caregiver (16%), cleaner (14%) and administrative assistant (14%). Overall, 93% were exposed to a workplace hazard, with most participants reporting physical stressors (82%) or organic solvent exposure (78%). Most women (74%) used some personal protective equipment. Nearly half (54%) reported at least one non-pregnancy symptom, and 52% were referred for follow-up with an occupational medicine practitioner. Household and hobby-related chemical exposures were common in our sample (91%). We observed moderate consistency between job task and chemical use responses: 67-99% of intentionally redundant questions were fully or partially matched. Closed- compared to open-ended activity questions identified a higher proportion of physical stressors (82% versus 12%) and cleaning product (76% versus 30%) exposures.

Conclusions

A self-administered questionnaire is an effective screening tool for identifying women with occupational and hobby-related exposures during pregnancy. Consistent incorporation of exposure assessment into prenatal care can improve clinical communications and early interventions for at-risk pregnant women.