Promoting health literacy during the perinatal period in Île-de-France: a description of the different profiles of pregnant women

Introduction – As part of its program to reduce infant mortality (Rémi), the Île-de-France Regional Health Agency (ARS IDF) launched the project "Promoting Health Literacy in Perinatal Care." The aim of this article is to describe the different health literacy profiles of pregnant women in the Île-de-France region. Method – The study utilized the Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ, 9 scales, 44 questions) combined with a sociodemographic analysis. Three maternity wards and one maternal and child health center (PMI) in Seine-Saint-Denis, Val-de-Marne, and Val-d’Oise surveyed pregnant women between October 2023 and March 2024. Results – Based on the 611 completed questionnaires, the results show that the scales with the lowest scores are “Navigating the healthcare system” and “Having sufficient information to manage one’s health.” Statistical analysis revealed twelve distinct profiles of health literacy among pregnant women in the Île-de-France region. Five profiles account for the greatest difficulties (34%). Health literacy tends to follow a social gradient. However, even with a high level of health literacy, some women exhibit weaknesses on certain scales. Conclusion – Health literacy is considered a crucial determinant of health. It appears necessary to develop intervention strategies aimed at promoting health-literacy-friendly environments, tailored to all women’s profiles, within a framework of collective responsibility to combat health inequalities.

Author(s): Cazé Cécile, Jaouannet Pauline, Assmann Karen, Auger Catherine, Hivard Philippe, Reberga Axèle, Desplanques Laurence, Gagneau Murielle, Ginot Luc

Publishing year: 2025

Pages: 207-215

Weekly Epidemiological Bulletin, 2025, n° 12, p. 207-215

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