Comparison of quality of life among women with normal and high risk pregnancy

pregnancy period is one of the most important life stages for women. It is along with broad changes in their physiological, psychosocial functioning. These changes affect the quality of their life. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of type of pregnancy (normal or high risk) on the quality of life. In this case-control study a total of 120 women (60 women with normal pregnancy and 60 women with high risk pregnancy) who referred to the prenatal clinics of Aligudarz, were assessed. Subjects were selected cluster sampling. Data were collected using a two part questionnaire that included demographic characteristics and the short form of SF- 36 questionnaire to assess the quality of life. In this study, the results revealed that the mean score of the quality of life was lower significantly (P< 0.001) in the women with high risk pregnancy (35.79 ± 14.67) in comparison with normal pregnancy (56.31 ± 15.44). Also, mean scores at mental health, social function, general health and emotional well-being dimensions in both groups have significant correlation with some of the prenatal risk factors. Quality of life in high risk pregnancy was lower than normal pregnancy. Therefore it is very important to identify women that are at risk during the first visit for prenatal management and try to promote their quality of life.