Women's physical health around live births and pregnancy losses: a longitudinal study.

Abstract

This study examines the long-term physical health impacts of pregnancy outcomes, comparing women who experienced live births to those who had pregnancy losses (miscarriages or stillbirths). While previous research has documented short-term links between pregnancy outcomes and physical health, fewer studies have explored these associations over the long term, particularly considering women's preconception health. Data were drawn from the Understanding Society Survey [UK Household Longitudinal Study (UKHLS)] from 2009 to 2023. The sample included 2386 women who reported their first pregnancy and were observed over multiple time points, both before and after pregnancy. Physical health was assessed using the Physical Component Summary (PCS) from the 12-item Short Form Survey (SF-12) questionnaire. Linear fixed-effects models were used to analyze changes in physical health relative to pregnancy outcomes, adjusting for socioeconomic, demographic, and mental health covariates. The analysis revealed a sharp decline in physical health (PCS score) at the end of pregnancy for both groups, with a more pronounced decline among women experiencing pregnancy losses. Post-pregnancy, these women continued to report lower PCS scores compared to those with live births, particularly in the 2 years following pregnancy. The confounders did not fully explain the observed differences. Pregnancy losses are associated with a significant and lasting decline in women's physical health, even after controlling for socio-demographic factors. Women who experience losses often report worse health than those transitioning to motherhood, with symptoms potentially including fatigue, pain, and cardiovascular diseases. These findings underscore the importance of long-term health monitoring and support for women following miscarriage or stillbirth.