Perceived Stress and Its Associated Factors Among Primigravida Mothers: A Cross- Sectional Study at Antenatal Units of HSK Hospital Bagalkot, Karnataka

Background: Pregnancy, an important life event accompanied by many positive changes of physical, physiological and psychological preparation in anticipation of birth and motherhood. Women’s who are going through the experience of pregnancy for the first time feels perceived stress by various associated factors. Aims: The aim of the study was to assess the level of perceived stress and its associated factors among Primi Gravida mothers. Methodology: This was a cross sectional study with a convenient sample of 100 Primi Gravida mothers attending antenatal units of HSK Hospital, Bagalkot. The perceived stress was measured using Cohen’s perceived stress scale and associated factors were assessed using structured socio-demographic and personal profile. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings: Findings related to assessment of levels of stress among Primi-gravida mothers reveals that most (90%) of Primigravida mothers had moderate stress,6% of them had high level of stress, 4% of them had low level of stress and the total mean and SD of stress scores was19.86 +3.72. No significant association found between the level of perceived stress of Primi-gravida mothers with their any of the socio-demographic variables and obstetrical factors. Conclusion: The perceived stress is a common factor in Primigravida mothers due to various physiological changes, so the assessment and management of stress early in the pregnancy is very crucial. Keywords: Perceived stress, Associated factors, Primi Gravida Mothers.