Exploring Self-Perceived Stress and Anxiety Throughout Pregnancy: A Longitudinal Study.

Abstract

Background: Anxiety and stress are common during pregnancy and can impact the health of the pregnant woman and the newborn. There is a lack of research focused on identifying weaknesses that promote equity in the care of pregnant women. The objective of this study was to describe the levels of anxiety and stress during the three trimesters of pregnancy and to compare whether there are differences according to obstetric and gynecological variables.

Methods: A descriptive prospective longitudinal and correlational observational study was carried out. Non-probability sampling was carried out with 176 women. The Pregnancy-Related Anxiety Questionnaire and the Perceived Stress Scale were used.

Results: The prevalence of anxiety was 23.9%, 17%, and 17.6%, and mean stress scores reached 32.24, 33.02, and 49.74 in the first, second, and third trimesters, respectively. In comparison, without miscarriages, anxiety was higher during the first trimester. In multiparous women who had suffered a miscarriage, anxiety was higher in the first trimester.

Conclusions: Anxiety is higher during the first trimester. Mean stress levels are higher during the third trimester compared to the other two trimesters. Care for these vulnerable pregnant women can impact society's health system and align with the Sustainable Development Goals of Health and Well-being and Gender Equality in others.