Psychological Aspects of Pregnancy in the Military: A Review

Abstract

In the past 20 years, more women have joined the armed forces than ever before. Consequently, the management of pregnant service members has raised important medical and administrative issues. Recent studies comparing service-women with their civilian counterparts have shown a significantly increased rate of pregnancy complications. This paper explores the psychosocial milieu in which active duty pregnancies occur and attempts to elucidate the psychological stressors that may contribute to the increased complication rate. The literature on pregnancy in the military and the existing regulations governing its medical and administrative management are reviewed. Case material is presented and analyzed. Three types of psychological stressors are identified and discussed: lack of social supports, the pressures of minority status, and the institutional reactions to gender roles. The author proposes mandatory education for military leaders regarding sensitivity to women's reproductive issues as well as specialized briefings for women inductees on the realities and risks of pregnancy in the military.