| Abstract: | The aim of this study was to determine the best preventive measures for employed pregnant women. Assuming that certain working conditions constitute a risk factor for preterm birth, should we give time off to women whose jobs are strenuous, reduce their weekly hours of work, or lengthen their antenatal maternity leave in an attempt to reduce risk of preterm birth? To answer this question, a survey carried out in 50 factories showed that a reduction of weekly working hours (routinely granted in many factories at present) appears helpful in reducing the preterm birth rate : this is also true for sick leaves granted for fatigue without pathological reason : on the other hand, the lengthening of antenatal maternity leave for fatigue, without medical reason, seems without effect. In the absence of experimental evaluation of preventive measures proposed at the end of this study, we provide a model for evaluating, theoretically, the relationship efficiency/cost/acceptability of such measures. Consequently, instead of lengthening antenatal maternity leave, we suggest prescribing 1 rest week (as sick leave) per month, beginning with the 4th month of pregnancy, for women working in strenuous conditions. |
