Prenatal distress level and its predictors according to the gestational age in pregnant women

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the present study was to determine the level and predictors of prenatal distress in pregnant women according to gestational age. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in eight Family Health Centers (FHCs) in Kirklareli in Northwestern Turkey. The study included 179 pregnant women at >= 12th week of gestation, who presented to the FHCs. Results: The frequency of prenatal distress among the participants was 21.2% (between 12th-27th weeks: 16.5%, between 28th-41st weeks: 26.8%). It was found that level of education, age of the spouse, current pregnancy being unplanned, and social support levels were associated with the level of prenatal distress in =12th week or between 12-27 weeks or between 28-41 weeks (p<0.05). In addition, perceived income level, abortion, and the number of pregnancies were associated with the level of prenatal distress in >= 12 weeks; the age of women, perceived income levels, previous abortion experience, and the number of pregnancies were associated with the level of prenatal distress in between 12-27 weeks; the age of women, education level of a spouse, and previous delivery experience were associated with prenatal distress levels in between 28-41weeks (p<0.05). Discussion: The level of prenatal distress according to the gestational age, the education level of the woman, the age of her spouse, unplanned pregnancies, and social support levels were predictors. In the 12-27 weeks and 28-41 weeks, the age of women was found to be a determining factor in prenatal stress levels in pregnant women. Pregnant women should be screened by healthcare professionals in terms of prenatal distress when they visit FHCs, and interventions to activate their social support mechanisms should be planned.