The prevalence of anxiety in pregnant women at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital

Abstract

Background: Non-psychotic mental disorders are common during the perinatal period. In South Africa, there are few studies on antenatal anxiety and these results vary. Antenatal anxiety does not only add to the burden of perinatal co-morbidity but has subsequent immediate and long-term effects on the mother, birth outcomes and her offspring.

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of anxiety symptoms in pregnant women during the antenatal period and to determine associated factors.

Setting: The study was conducted at an antenatal clinic located in Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH), Soweto, Johannesburg. Data were collected from March to December 2022.

Methods: This was a prospective, cross-sectional study in which 200 pregnant women were interviewed. A biographical questionnaire and the generalised anxiety disorder questionnaire (GAD-7) were administered.

Results: The prevalence of anxiety symptoms in pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic was 33%. Participants with anxiety were younger, employed and had lower perceived social support. Women with planned and wanted pregnancies had a lower prevalence of anxiety.

Conclusion: One-third of the pregnant women screened positive for anxiety symptoms on the GAD-7. This is significantly higher compared to other studies carried out in the same facility previously. High-risk groups should be screened for anxiety.

Contribution: This study prompts further studies and guiding policies on routine screening of pregnant women for anxiety and other mental illnesses during pregnancy.