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Table 2 Overarching Themes, Priority Research Topics by Rank and Example Priority Potential Research Questions

From: Research priorities of women at risk for preterm birth: findings and a call to action

Overarching Theme

Priority Research Topics (Rank Importance Across All Regions)

Example Priority Potential Questions (Region)

Maternal Health and Care Before, During, and After Pregnancy

• Medications, Procedures and Tests During Pregnancy [1]

• Mother’s Health Before and During Pregnancy [3]

• Care Provision During Pregnancy and Birth [4]

• Care After Birth [5]

• Decision Making During Pregnancy [11]

• Preconception, Contraception and Sexuality [12]

• Mental Health Support [13]

• Maternal Nutrition [15]

Why don’t we have alternative options for support during delivery? (For example, doula, midwife) (Oakland)

Newborn Health and Care of the Preterm Baby

• Newborn Health and Problems Related to Prematurity [6]

• Infant Nutrition, Feeding and Medications [14]

Is it harmful to babies to be separated from mom (family) even if they are sick? (Fresno)

Understanding Stress and Interventions to Prevent or Reduce Stress

• Stress and the Benefits of Social Support [2]

• Education and Empowerment of Birthing Women [7]

• Support for Fathers During and After Pregnancy [16]

• The Impact of Men on Pregnancy Outcomes [17]

• Role of Family and Friends in Caring for Families [19]

Why aren’t there more widely available education materials or videos, etc. to help women recognize their own stress? (Fresno)

Research to Address Interpersonal and Structural Health Inequities

• Health Care Providers [6]

• Communication and Cultural Sensitivity [8]

• Hospital and Health System Practices [9]

• Workplace and Insurance Issues [10]

• Innovations in Care Models [18]

• Pharmaceutical Company Involvement in Birth [20]

What are the most effective ways to improve patient-provider communication, particularly when patients perceive insensitive and rude comments from health care workers? (San Francisco)

  1. For further details by group and region, refer to Appendices 1–2 and website: https://pretermbirthca.ucsf.edu/developing-research-strategy-partnership-communities-affected-preterm-birth