KNOWLEDGE OF THE IMPACT OF MATERNAL ANXIETY AND STRESS ON PREGNANCY OUTCOMES AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN ATTENDING A PRIMARY HEALTH FACILITY IN AKURE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Pregnancy constitutes one of the most physiologically and psychologically demanding periods in a woman’s life. Maternal anxiety and stress during this period have been increasingly associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, yet knowledge of these associations among pregnant women in low- and middle-income countries remains poorly documented. This study evaluated the knowledge of the impact of maternal anxiety and stress on pregnancy outcomes among pregnant women attending the comprehensive health center, Arakale, Akure, Ondo State. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed. A systematic random sample of 171 pregnant women was recruited over four weeks. Data were collected using a structured, researcher-administered questionnaire comprising five sections. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages) and inferential statistics (Pearson’s chi-square) were used for analysis via SPSS version 27.0. The majority, (83.0%) of respondents was aware of maternal anxiety and stress; 54.4% demonstrated good overall knowledge. A high prevalence of maternal anxiety and stress was reported by 60.2% of respondents. Over 62.6% had good knowledge of the effects of anxiety and stress on pregnancy outcomes. Key associated factors included fear of childbirth (54.4%), financial difficulties (48.5%), relationship conflict (48.5%), and significant life changes (78.4%). Chi-square analysis revealed a statistically significant relationship between knowledge level and prevalence of maternal anxiety and stress (χ2 = 2.00, df = 2, p = 0.004). Pregnant women in this setting exhibit a significant yet imperfect understanding of maternal anxiety and stress and their consequences. Structured integration of mental health education into routine antenatal care is recommended to improve knowledge and mitigate adverse outcomes.