Degree
Master of Science
Program
Epidemiology and Biostatistics
Supervisor
Dr. Neil Klar
2nd Supervisor
Dr. Karen Campbell
Joint Supervisor
Abstract
The primary aim of this thesis is to identify whether satisfaction with perinatal health care encounters is associated with lower postpartum weight retention (PPWR). PPWR is the difference between postpartum and pre-pregnancy weight. Principal components analysis confirmed the validity of a summed satisfaction score representing six dimensions: information, compassion, competency, privacy, respect and decision-making. Confounders were identified using a directed acyclic graph. Multivariable linear regression models were constructed using blocks, and backwards elimination. Results reflect a mean PPWR of 2.5 kg, and high satisfaction, with more than 90% of respondents being very satisfied or satisfied on each dimension. The multivariable model indicates no significant association between overall satisfaction with care and PPWR. However, individually, higher levels of satisfaction with information provided, and satisfaction with involvement in decision-making had a statistically significant effect on PPWR, with a 0.23 and 0.27 kg reduction for every one unit increase in satisfaction, respectively.
Recommended Citation
Bente, Andreea, "Does Satisfaction with Perinatal Health Care Influence Postpartum Weight Retention?" (2015). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 2963.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/2963
Included in
Behavior and Behavior Mechanisms Commons, Epidemiology Commons, Health Communication Commons, Maternal and Child Health Commons, Women's Health Commons