Comparative Analysis of the Occurrence of Depression, Stress, and Anxiety in Pregnant Women Requiring Hospitalization and Those Not Hospitalized

TL;DR

This study found that pregnant women, whether hospitalized or not, experience high levels of depression, stress, and anxiety, suggesting the need for emotional screening during pregnancy.

Contribution

The study compares emotional states in hospitalized and non-hospitalized pregnant women, revealing significant differences in depression levels.

Findings

Hospitalized women showed significantly higher depression levels than non-hospitalized women (p = 0.0217).

About 66% of all participants experienced severe or extremely severe anxiety.

35% of participants showed severe or extremely severe stress levels.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the emotional state (stress, mood, and anxiety level, including labor anxiety) of pregnant women depending on the course of pregnancy and the related place of stay (hospital pregnancy pathology department, home). Methods: A total of 100 participants were recruited between 25 and 38 weeks of pregnancy. A total of 88 fully completed questionnaires of women qualified for analysis, including 45 women staying in the hospital (G1) and 43 women who did not require hospitalization (G2). The Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-42), the Labor Anxiety Questionnaire (KLP II), the Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS), and a self-administered questionnaire were used. Results: All subjects showed an average moderate level of depression and stress and a high level of anxiety. A statistically significant difference in mood level (DASS depression) was noted between group G1 and group G2 (p = 0.0217). About 35% of all subjects in total and both groups achieved a result indicating a severe or extremely severe level of stress. About 66% of subjects in both groups showed a severe and extremely severe level of anxiety. None of the women studied had values interpreted as a physiological level of anxiety. Conclusions: Regardless of the course of pregnancy and the related place of residence, the risk of emotional disorders is high. It seems reasonable to perform screening tests on pregnant women to identify those who may or already have these problems.