Stress among pregnant women: A systematic review

Introduction: Stress is a complex situation which is genetically determined pattern of response of the human physiology to a challenging situation. Persistent emotional neglect and constant stress response reflects differences in individual behavior, as well as differences in physical strength or general physical condition. Aim: To systematically review the available literature on stress and its adverse effect on pregnant women. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive review from PubMed and CINAHL database was done from 1998 to 2015. Search strategy specific to each database was used. During initial search 43,071 titles were retrieved and after screening 58 articles were selected for eligibility. Finally 14 research articles were selected based on the inclusion criteria. Results: All the 14 studies showed that increased maternal stress was associated with gravidity, gestational age at delivery, monthly family income, prematurity and preterm delivery. The maternal stress present during antenatal period for a long time has adverse effect on foetal and maternal outcomes. Conclusion: Antenatal stress during pregnancy has adverse effect on maternal and foetal outcomes. Hence, maternity healthcare provider should understand the consequences of antenatal stress leading to long term effect. The health care providers can offer educational material as well as conduct programs to improve the maternal and infant health and initiate healthy therapeutic measures for all pregnant women.