Factors associated with prenatal distress levels of pregnant women

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the association between prenatal distress levels and sociodemographic characteristics, pregnancy-related factors, and resilience levels of pregnant women. Methods: This study was carried out at the gynecology and obstetrics clinics of a maternity and children hospital in Giresun (n=243). The data were collected using an Information Form, Revised Prenatal Distress Questionnaire, and Resilience Scale for Adults. Spearman correlation analysis and binary logistic regression analysis were used in data analysis. Results: The mean prenatal distress total score of the women was 11.63±6.40. The concerns about baby care and postpartum life had the highest score. Prenatal distress levels of pregnant women with a risky pregnancy, a chronic disease, a health problem during pregnancy, and who used medication due to this problem were high (p<0.05). There was a negative weak correlation between the prenatal distress levels and the resilience levels of pregnant women (p<0.05). Conclusion: Pregnant women who experience pregnancy-related problems have higher prenatal distress levels. In particular, prenatal distress includes concerns about baby care and postpartum life. These results are similar to those in the literature. Nurses’ awareness of factors affecting prenatal distress can guide them in giving sufficient psychosocial care and support during pregnancy.