Pregnancy Outcomes: Psychosocial Aspect

Synonyms

Depression; Pregnancy complications

Definition

For most women, pregnancy is viewed as a natural and joyful event. In more than 80% of pregnancies, the delivery process is unremarkable, with no physiological or psychological complications. Indeed, the most notable changes associated with pregnancy often occur in social and partner relations, as well as changes to one’s lifestyle. For instance, sleep deprivation and disturbance are the most frequently reported pregnancy-related disturbances. Pregnancy-related sleep disturbances, in turn, impact numerous facets of life including mood, cognition, social functioning, and memory (Harding, 1975).

For a small percentage of women, pregnancy and delivery are complicated by a variety of adverse outcomes. Preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), or preterm delivery can significantly affect the psychological health of women. Psychosocial aspects of pregnancy outcomes range along a continuum and are multidimensional....