Urban Green Space and Perinatal Health Inequities in the United States: A Literature Review

Abstract

Access to urban green space has been linked to positive health outcomes including enhanced perinatal health. The purpose of this article was to review, summarize, and synthesize what is known about the relationship between urban green space and perinatal health and outline implications for practice, policy, education, and research. Nineteen articles were included in this state-of-the-science review. Overall, it was found that limited access to green space is significantly related to adverse birth outcomes. These findings present an important opportunity for childbirth educators and other clinicians involved in the provision of prenatal and reproductive health care. Through education and intervention, poor perinatal outcomes may be mitigated. Clinical screening and education about the importance of access to and use of urban green space during pregnancy should be an essential component of preconception counseling and antenatal screening for at-risk populations. Policy makers should be made aware of these findings so that impactful change can be made in order to reduce disparities and promote health equity.