Perceived Stress and Prenatal Distress during Pregnancy and its Related Factors

Abstract

Background: pregnancy is one of the most stressful periods a woman experiences in her life. This study was done to determine the perceived stress and prenatal distress in pregnancy and its related factors. Methods: The is cohort study was carried out on 110 pregnant women whit gestational age of 24 to 28 weeks who referred to Reference laboratory in Miandoab city in 2016-2017. The sample was selected based on availability. The Cohen Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Prenatal Distress Questionnaire (PDQ) and demographical information were used. All obtained data were analyzed in SPSS-23 using t test, Paired-t test and person test. Significant level was considered less than 0.05. Results: The results of study show perceived stress and prenatal distress scores in 32-36 weeks have been uptrend than 24-28 weeks. Also, there was a significant relationship between wanted pregnancy with the mean stress score in 24-28 weeks (p=0.04). Also, between perceived stress score in 32-36 weeks and maternal education level (p=0.045) and between the distress score in 24-28 weeks pregnant and the wanting the sex of the fetus by the women. (p=0.045) Conclusions: According to the results, stress and anxiety of pregnant women increase with approaching delivery time; caregivers should be taken into consideration by pregnant women. In addition, the results of the study show the importance of holding educational classes and raising women’s' awareness of pregnancy and childbirth and having a planned pregnancy to reduce stress and distress.