OHQOL among pregnant women in Hong Kong: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate oral health problems experienced during pregnancy and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among pregnant women in Hong Kong. Methods: Pregnant women were invited to participate in a self-completed questionnaire survey when they were attending antenatal checkup at two public hospitals in Hong Kong. Data on oral health problems experienced during pregnancy and OHRQoL using OHIP-14 as well as socio-demographic characteristics were collected. Multiple logistic regression and Negative binomial regression were used to investigate factors associated with the experience of oral health problems and the OHIP-14 scores respectively. Results: 781 pregnant women with a mean age of 32.4 (SD 4.5) years and a mean gestational age of 23.4 (SD 9.1) weeks participated in the survey. More than 60% of the participants reported having dental problems during pregnancy and 20% had multiple oral health problems. The most frequently mentioned problems were gum bleeding (37%), bad breath (22%) and sensitivity (16%). Multiple logistic regression showed that participants with no childbearing history (OR=1.52, p=0.006), and lower household monthly income (≤HK$19,999 vs. ≥HK$40,000, OR=1.822; HK$20,000-39,999 vs. ≥HK$40,000, OR=1.305, p=0.009) had a higher chance to experience oral health problems. The mean OHIP-14 score was 3.72 (SD=6.33) ranging from 0 to 43. Negative binomial regression showed that participants experiencing oral health problems (IRR=2.50, p<0.001), perceiving poorer oral health status (poor vs. good, IRR=2.66; fair vs. good, IRR=1.14, p=0.004), having negative oral health attitude (IRR=1.21, p=0.001) and having nausea-vomiting currently (IRR=1.44, p=0.009) had higher OHIP-14 scores. Conclusions: Experience of oral health problems is common among pregnant women in Hong Kong. Childbearing history and income level are associated with the experience of oral health problems. In general, the OHRQoL of pregnant women is good. Experience of oral health problems, perceived oral health status, oral health attitude and nausea-vomiting are associated with OHRQoL.