Association between pregnant specific stress and depressive symptoms in the late pregnancy of Chinese women: the moderate role of family relationship and leisure hobbies

Abstract

Background Little research has been conducted on the association between pregnant specific stress and depressive symptoms, and whether family relationship and leisure hobbies moderate the association. Methods A cross-sectional survey of 647 pregnant women was conducted in Shenyang City, Liaoning Province of China. Pregnancy Pressure Scale (PPS), Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and two single items were used to assess stress, perinatal depressive symptoms, family relationship and leisure hobbies, respectively. The analysis included χ 2 -test, Fisher’s exact test, and binary logistic regression. Results The prevalence of perinatal depressive symptoms was 22.9% among the participants. After adjustment, four dimensions of pregnancy stress were found to increase the risk of depressive symptoms, and odds ratios (ORs) were 4.175 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.240, 7.779), 5.947 (95% CI = 2.624, 13.478), 3.907 (95% CI = 2.375, 6.425), and 8.534 (95% CI = 4.588, 15.873) for factors 1, 2, 3, and 4 (recognition of the role of parents, worrying about maternal and child health and safety, the changes in body shape and physical activity level, as well as child care and marriage), respectively. In addition, significant interactions were found between factor 2, factor 4 and family relationship, leisure hobbies with depressive symptoms, respectively (interaction P < 0.10). Conclusion Tailored stress-overcoming programs, as well as health services, are needed to relieve women’s pregnancy stress and prevent them from depressive symptoms. Clinical practice should conduct family relationship-oriented interventions and women themselves can cultivate extensive leisure hobbies in the period of pregnancy preparation.

Family Nursing Care during the Transition to Parenthood: A Scoping Review

“…The former involves sustained physical, mental, and financial efforts and investments required for parenting [ 27 ]. These challenges align with the inherent changes in this transition, involving shifts in family dynamics and the roles of each member [ 11 , 12 , 13 ]. In contrast, the rewards encompass achieving parenting goals and personal growth, contributing to a positive self-concept [ 27 ].…”

“…It encompasses what is often perceived as a joyful period in many families’ lives, yet it can equally be a cause of substantial stress due to the array of psychological, social, emotional, and physical changes [ 10 ]. The stressors associated with pregnancy include changes in body shape, the level of physical activity during this stage, and concerns related to maternal and child health and safety [ 11 ]. Additionally, unplanned pregnancy, exposure to stressful life events, and caregiving for a family member facing health challenges may contribute to additional anxiety [ 12 ].…”

“…Additionally, the transition to parenthood comprises the integration of new elements, modifying the dynamics and characteristics of the existing family system [ 13 ]. Thus, there are noticeable shifts in family relationships [ 11 ], along with the definition of new roles and responsibilities [ 13 ]. These aspects become focal points of attention for family nurses, underscoring the importance of addressing these evolving processes within their roles.…”

Self perceived health and stress in the pregnancy during the COVID-19 pandemic

“…We cannot forget that measures must be taken to address the mental health of pregnant women and to carry out programs to overcome and alleviate stress during pregnancy (39,44).…”

Soporte familiar y trastornos del estado de ánimo en gestantes atendidas en el Centro de Salud Pachacamac durante el año 2022

“…No obstante, la literatura evidencia la existencia de relación entre esas variables. 83,84,85 Respecto a las demás variables de características socio geográficas, posiblemente no se encontró relación en nuestro estudio por la muestra heterogénea según tipos de familia. Además, no logramos abarcar indicadores como: estrés crónico post pandemia, ambiente laboral y otros, que pueden verse relacionado al desencadenamiento de los trastornos.…”