The relationship of psychosocial well-being and social support with pregnant women's perceptions of traumatic childbirth

Abstract

Aim This study was conducted to investigate the correlation of psychosocial health and social support with traumatic birth perception in pregnant women. Method The data of this descriptive epidemiological study were obtained from 461 pregnant women who visited a Family Health Center (FHC) between August 2018 and 2019. The data were collected by the face-to-face interview method, using a Participant Information Form, the Psychosocial Health Assessment in Pregnancy and Perceived Social Support and Traumatic Birth Perception Scales. Results Traumatic birth perception was negatively correlated with the Psychosocial Health in Pregnancy Scale and its subscales, as well as being negatively correlated with the Perceived Social Support Scale and its subscales. According to this result, it was determined that traumatic birth perception increases as psychosocial problems increase. As the perceived social support of pregnancy and spouse relationship, especially related to familial relationships, decreases, the perception of traumatic birth increases. Conclusion According to the results of the study, psychosocial assessment and screening of social support status in pregnant women are recommended as part of the routine clinical practices of midwives and nurses. In this regard, support may be obtained from international practices and experience.