Life Satisfaction and Obstetric Outcomes in the United States

Abstract

To examine the relation between life satisfaction and obstetric outcomes in the United States. Based on the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System life satisfaction results (2005-2008), the 50 states and Washington, DC were categorized into higher, middle, and lower life satisfaction groups. We obtained data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Vital Statistics System (2005-2008) and calculated the fertility rates and fetal, neonatal, and infant mortality rates for the 50 states and Washington, DC. Correlations were examined. Risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals between groups were calculated. There was a significant correlation between life satisfaction and fertility rate (r = 0.34; P = 0.012) and infant mortality rate (r = 0.28; P = 0.044). The higher group had a greater fertility rate, but it also had higher infant and neonatal mortality rates than those of the lower group. Although the states with the most life satisfaction had higher fertility rates, they also had worse mortality outcomes. Birth outcomes may be more greatly affected by factors other than life satisfaction.