Prenatal distress level and its predictors according to the gestational age in pregnant women in the semi-urban region in Northwestern Turkey: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: The aim of the present study was to determine the level and predictors of prenatal distress in pregnant women according to gestational age.Methods: This a cross-sectional study was conducted in eight Family Health Centers (FHCs) in Kirklareli, in Turkey. The study included 179 pregnant women who presented to the FHCs, who were at ≥12th week of gestation. Results:The frequency of prenatal distress in 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 12th-27th weeks or between 28th-41st weeks (p<0.05). And also, perceived income level, abortion, and the number of pregnancies were associated with the level of prenatal distress in ≥12th 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 12th-27th weeks; the age of women, education level of spouse', and previous birth experience prenatal distress levels were associated in between 28th-41st weeks (p<0.05).Conclusion: The level of prenatal distress according to the gestational age, the education level of the woman, the age of her spouse’, the unplanned pregnancy, and social support levels were predictors. In both periods, the age of women were determinants in prenatal stress levels in pregnant women. Pregnant women should be screened and evaluated for prenatal distress in their application to FHCs.