Relationship between maternal stress and pregnancy outcomes: A prospective study

Stress during pregnancy can be associated with adverse outcomes including preterm birth and intrauterine growth retardation. This study was performed with aim to evaluate the relationship between maternal stress and pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women referring to health centers in Qazvin. This longitude prospective study was performed on 239 pregnant women with singleton pregnancy at 24-28 gestational weeks referred to Qazvin health centers in 2018. The subjects of exposed group obtained score > 23, while non-exposed group obtained score < 23 from Cohen's perceived stress questionnaire. The outcomes were preterm birth (before 37 weeks) and neonatal outcomes. Mothers were followed up until delivery, then checklist was completed at the time of birth. Data were analyzed by SPSS software (version 24) and t-test, Chi-square and logistic regression. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. There was significant relationship between preterm delivery, birth weight, neonate's height and head circumference, respiratory distress, and neonatal jaundice with mother's stress during pregnancy (P <0.05). Perceived stress in pregnant women can cause preterm delivery and adverse neonatal outcomes.
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