Health related quality of life (HRQoL) in mothers of premature infants at NICU discharge.

Abstract

Premature delivery and a potential Neonatal Intensive Care Unit admission may be associated with the risk of poor maternal health. We aimed to examine the mothers' health-related quality of life (HRQoL) at the time of infant discharge. Fifty mothers completed the Medical Outcomes Study-Short Form 12. It has a Physical Component Score (PCS) and Mental Component Score (MCS), both with a mean of 50 and standard deviation of 10. Analysis included infant, maternal, and pregnancy-related characteristics. In multivariable analyses, a household income of <150K lowered the PCS by 10 points (p = 0.003) compared to those with higher incomes. Marginal significance was noted in GA, for every week gained the PCS score was lower by 1.5 points. Several risk factors are associated with lower physical health ratings in mothers of preterm infants at discharge. This information can be used to inform providers in their anticipatory guidance to the family and follow-up plans.