Psychological responses to follow-up ultrasound in pregnant women with benign adnexal masses

Psychological distress, including anxiety and depression, is common among pregnant women and can negatively impact both maternal and fetal health. Benign adnexal masses are frequently detected during pregnancy through ultrasound and may induce emotional distress due to concerns about potential complications. However, limited research has focused on the psychological responses of pregnant women diagnosed with benign adnexal masses during follow-up ultrasound. This study aims to investigate the psychological responses of these women and identify influencing factors, ultimately informing clinical management strategies. This observational study included 102 pregnant women diagnosed with benign adnexal masses between January 2023 and February 2025. Participants were assessed at baseline, 2 months, and 4 months after the initial ultrasound using validated questionnaires: the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and Mishel Uncertainty in Illness Scale-16 (MUIS-16). Repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to analyze changes in psychological scores and mass size over the study period. Anxiety and illness uncertainty significantly increased at the 2-month follow-up (GAD-7: 10.44 ± 2.06, PHQ-9: 6.18 ± 1.84, MUIS-16: 60.56 ± 9.06) compared to baseline (GAD-7: 3.12 ± 1.26, PHQ-9: 4.56 ± 1.72, MUIS-16: 54.36 ± 8.43), but gradually decreased by the 4-month follow-up (GAD-7: 6.03 ± 2.39, PHQ-9: 5.77 ± 1.89, MUIS-16: 58.90 ± 10.67). Despite these psychological changes, the size of the benign adnexal masses remained stable across the 3 time points (P = .299), with no significant adverse events reported. Pregnant women diagnosed with benign adnexal masses may experience transient increases in anxiety and illness uncertainty, particularly following the initial diagnosis. However, these symptoms tend to decrease with continued ultrasound follow-up and clinical reassurance. Regular imaging surveillance and timely psychological assessments may help alleviate emotional distress and improve patient confidence during pregnancy. This study highlights the importance of integrating psychological care into routine prenatal management for women with benign adnexal masses.