Exploring Anxiety Levels and Pregnancy Experiences Among Women with Neurological Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: In addition to pregnancy-specific anxiety, women experience additional anxiety related to diseases or complications that occur during pregnancy. It is reported that approximately 23% of women experience generalized anxiety disorders during pregnancy, with an increased frequency of anxiety disorders, particularly in the third trimester.

Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study obtained data from pregnant women who met the inclusion criteria. The data was collected through face-to-face interviews using a Demographic Information Form, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and Pregnancy Experience Scale (PES). The sociodemographic, clinical, and obstetric characteristics of the participants were gathered and documented through a Demographic Information Form developed by the researchers. The study was completed with a total of 358 pregnant participants.

Results: The average age of the pregnant women participating in the study was 29.01 ± 5.37 years. When evaluating educational status, it was observed that 41.1% had completed high school. Regarding gestational weeks, 78.2% of the women were in the third trimester. Analysis of neurological conditions among pregnant women indicated that 74% reported experiencing migraines and headaches. The mean score for "state anxiety" was calculated as 40.33 ± 8.10, while for "trait anxiety," it was 37.79 ± 8.50. Exploring the average scores of the Pregnancy Experiences Scale (PES), the mean score for "positive frequency" was 27.28 ± 7.08, and for "negative frequency," it was 17.39 ± 5.55.

Conclusion: Notably, among pregnant women with neurological disorders, the levels of state and trait anxiety displayed notable correlations with the frequency and intensity of both positive and negative pregnancy-related experiences. Recognizing and diagnosing mood and anxiety disorders early in pregnancy, particularly in the context of neurological conditions, holds significance in mitigating potential adverse impacts on both maternal and fetal well-being. Stressing the importance of appropriate interventions and care measures is pivotal in reducing these potential effects.