The investigation of changes in health-related quality of life before and after giving birth in a sample of Romanian women

Abstract

Pregnancy is an important and meaningful period of transition to motherhood. It can be seen as a socially, physically, psychologically, and culturally challenging and transformative period, and may affect women’s physical and mental health. Objectives of this study are to investigate significant differences in health-related quality of life and indicators of mental health in women during pregnancy and after giving birth and to explore the association patterns between these variables during pregnancy and after giving birth. The study included 57 Romanian women enrolled from July 2019 until the end of April 2020 through Facebook groups dedicated to pregnant women and mothers, forums, and support groups. The women completed the set of questionnaires twice: during pregnancy and one month after giving birth. The participants reported significantly lower levels of depressive symptoms in the second semester of pregnancy compared to the assessment conducted one month after giving birth. Physical functioning, affectionate expression, and vitality proved to significantly improve after giving birth. Emotional well-being, social functioning, and cohesion seem to lower significantly after giving birth. The results of the study can be used as a basis for designing, planning, and implementing appropriate interventions for women by healthcare providers and policymakers.