PHO Rounds: Preconception health, pregnancy outcomes & care experiences of women with disabilities

One in ten women of reproductive age has a physical, sensory, or intellectual disability. Women with disabilities experience significant social, health and health care disparities. Data show that their pregnancy rates are increasing, however, little is known about the preconception and pregnancy outcomes, in addition to the care experiences of women with disabilities. A study was conducted using population-based administrative data to examine the preconception and pregnancy outcomes of women with disabilities in Ontario, in addition to interviews with women with disabilities, physicians, public health nurses and social service providers. The data demonstrates important disparities among women with disabilities and is relevant to the Ontario Public Health Standards, which focus on reducing health inequities related to healthy growth and development. This session will highlight our findings and discuss implications for the development of preconception and prenatal interventions to optimize pregnancy outcomes among women with disabilities.

The objectives of the webinar are to:
1. Summarize the evidence on the preconception and pregnancy outcomes and care experiences of women with disabilities in Ontario;
2. Discuss the importance of developing and implementing tailored resources for women with disabilities around the time of pregnancy;
3. Identify the roles that public health professionals may play in promoting the health of women with disabilities in the preconception and prenatal periods.