Determinants of depression, anxiety, and stress among rural pregnant women: A hospital-based study

ABSTRACT Background: Depression, anxiety, and stress are prevalent among rural pregnant women, making it vital to identify their underlying causes to design effective interventions and improve maternal mental health outcomes. Aim: We aimed to study the determinants of depression, anxiety, and stress among rural pregnant women. Materials and Methods: One hundred and fifty rural pregnant women, in all three trimesters, aged 18 years and above were sampled. Sociodemographic and obstetric data were obtained. Depression, anxiety, and stress were measured using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21. Statistical Analysis Used: The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 26.0 was used to analyze the data. Pearson’s Chi-square test was done to study the association of sociodemographic and obstetric variables with depression, anxiety, and stress. Results: Among participants, 16.7%, 31.2%, and 31.3% had depression, anxiety, and stress, respectively. Factors associated with depression were number of previous pregnancies ( P = 0.0001), abortion/stillbirth history ( P = 0.02), previous pregnancy complications ( P = 0.03). Abortion/stillbirth history ( P = 0.001) and spousal abuse ( P = 0.004) were related to anxiety. Stress: Number of previous pregnancies ( P = 0.01), spousal abuse ( P = 0.01), social support from mother ( P = 0.007). Newborn care concern ( P = 0.002), spouse alcohol use ( P = 0.04), social support from in-laws ( P = 0.009), and stressful life events during pregnancy ( P = 0.0001) were associated with depression, anxiety, and stress. Stressful life events during pregnancy were related to both anxiety and stress ( P = 0.0001). Conclusion: This study highlighted the multifaceted nature of depression, anxiety, and stress among rural pregnant women, offering valuable insights into the sociodemographic and obstetric factors involved.