Factors associated with the self-esteem of pregnant women at normal risk

Abstract

Objectives: to analyze the factors associated with the self-esteem of normal risk pregnant women. Methods: this is a cross-sectional study conducted with 150 pregnant women at normal risk from three primary health care units in the city of Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil. Two instruments were used: a questionnaire (sociodemographic, gynecological-obstetric history and current pregnancy) and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Student’s t-test was used for data analysis. Results: it was observed that the factors associated with low self-esteem of pregnant women were age up to 19 years (p=0.023), not being married (p=0.005), not living with a partner (p=0.049), not having a paid occupation during pregnancy (p=0.026) and not planning the pregnancy (p=0.044). Conclusions: pregnant adolescents, not having a partner and without pay affect their self-esteem. These aspects should be considered a priority for investment in health, management and organization of health services.