Objective: A premature birth can cause parental stress, anxiety and uncertainty. This study illustrates the long-term consequences of a preterm birth for family life.
Design: Retrospective study by questionnaire.
Method: Parents of 959 children, who were born in 1983 with a gestational age of less than 32 weeks or a birth weight of less than 1500 grams, were approached when their children turned 19 years old. We investigated various aspects of their family lives by means of a written questionnaire.
Results: We received completed questionnaires back from 595 parents (62%). The divorce rate was higher in families with a disabled child (26 vs. 14%). Working mothers (n = 257) and fathers (n = 506) experienced negative consequences in their workplace (36% and 2%, respectively). The risk factor was having a handicapped child. Financial problems were present in 11% of the families during the first year and 4% still experienced financial problems after 19 years; risk factors were a handicap, male gender and a low social-economic status (SES) of the parents. Of the respondents, 26% had observed a decrease in social activities and friends during the first year and 15% felt that family and friends provided insufficient support during this year. After 19 years, 4% of the respondents still experienced a negative influence on their social lives. Risk factors were a handicap, normal birth weight (no dysmaturity), male gender and low SES. 28% of parents expressed that during the first year having a preterm child was emotional challenging or difficult to accept. After 19 years, 3% still expressed an unfavourable effect of the preterm birth. Risk factors were handicap, dysmaturity and male gender.
Conclusion: A premature birth has a great impact on the family, especially when the child has a handicap.