Physical Environment Factors Influencing Falls Among Women During Pregnancy

Abstract

Objectives, Purpose, or Aim

This study investigates how physical environmental features influence balance loss and falls among women in their third trimester of pregnancy. It aims to identify environmental affordances that contribute to or mitigate fall risks.

Background

Falls during pregnancy pose significant risks to maternal and fetal health. Understanding interactions between pregnant women and home environments is essential for effective fall prevention. This study employs ecological and dynamic systems theories to explore these interactions.

Methods

Weekly interviews were conducted with 13 pregnant women in their third trimester. Participants documented real-world incidents of falls and near-falls within home environments. Data were analyzed to identify patterns in environmental affordances and behaviors linked to balance loss and fall prevention.

Results

Findings identified three types of affordances: Functional affordances supporting behavior (e.g., sufficient lighting levels to navigate spaces). Dysfunctional affordances increasing risks, such as low furniture, slippery surfaces, and inadequate supports. Preventive affordances used to avoid falls. Behaviors linked to falls included rising from low furniture, descending stairs, navigating cluttered spaces, and entering bathtubs. Environmental factors like slippery surfaces and open furniture layouts were key contributors.

Conclusions

Falls during late pregnancy result from complex interactions between environmental and behavioral constraints. This study offers insights into designing safer environments tailored to pregnant women's needs. Limitations include recall bias and limited generalizability due to the small sample size. Despite these, the study provides a strong foundation for future research and fall prevention strategies.