Evaluation of Nulliparous Women Childbirth Anxiety in Baghdad Maternity Hospitals

Abstract

Abstract: It is important to be concerned about anxiety during pregnancy since it will influence the fetus's growth. Extreme levels of stress, sadness, or anxiety during pregnancy increase the risk of an adverse pregnancy outcome.

Objectives: To Evaluate the Nulliparous pregnant women's childbirth anxiety. To find out the association between pregnant women’s anxiety with some demographical and gestational age.

Methods: A descriptive design used a non-probability (purposive sample) of (200) nulliparous pregnant women to collect the data through a self-reported questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised (14) items on pregnancy-related anxiety. The study was conducted from February to July 2023.

Results: Regarding age about half (50%) of pregnant women at age (20-29) years (27%) are graduated from preparatory school. More than two-thirds (67%) in the second trimester. The majority of them have planned pregnancy (81.5%). Most of them have mild anxiety (57%), and the leftovers (43%) have severe anxiety. There is no significant association between pregnant women’s childbirth anxiety with age, education, or gestational age.

Conclusion: This study concluded that more than half of pregnant women have mild anxiety, and more than two-thirds have severe anxiety.

Recommendations: Pregnant women need prenatal education and support regarding childbirth anxiety during routine prenatal visits.