A Phenomenological Study of Pregnancy Anxiety among Pregnant Women in Tabriz

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Psychology, Urmia Branch, Islamic Azad University, Urmia, Iran

2 Department of Psychology, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy anxiety, as one of the most prevalent psychological challenges during gestation, can adversely affect maternal health, fetal development, and long-term developmental outcomes. Given the complexity and multidimensional nature of this phenomenon, exploring the lived experiences of pregnant women is essential for a deeper understanding of its various dimensions and contributing factors.
Aim: This study aimed to elucidate the phenomenological experiences of pregnancy anxiety among pregnant women in Tabriz, Iran.
Methods: A qualitative descriptive phenomenological approach was adopted. Twenty pregnant women residing in Tabriz were selected through purposive sampling until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data were collected via semi-structured in-depth interviews (averaging 45-60 minutes) and analyzed using Colaizzi's thematic analysis method in MAXQDA software. The analytical process included open, axial, and selective coding, culminating in the extraction of main and sub-themes. To ensure trustworthiness, Guba and Lincoln's criteria, including member checking and participant diversity, were adhered to.
Results: Data analysis revealed four main themes and 12 sub-themes: 1) Physiological dimension (physical symptoms, history of specific diseases, harmful habits); 2) Psychological dimension (personality traits, emotions, thoughts, recent stressful experiences); 3) Cultural dimension (lack of educational-support groups, stereotypical beliefs/misconceptions, need for spirituality enhancement guided by specialists); 4) Socioeconomic dimension (social connections/support, financial constraints and economic hardship). These themes interacted dynamically to shape the unique experience of pregnancy anxiety.
Conclusion: The findings confirm the necessity of managing pregnancy anxiety through a multidimensional and holistic approach encompassing physiological, psychological, cultural, and socioeconomic dimensions. Designing comprehensive educational-supportive interventions and revising health and social policies based on these dimensions represent a critical step toward reducing pregnancy anxiety, promoting maternal mental health, and improving pregnancy outcomes.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Qualitative Research in Behavioral Sciences (QRBS)
Volume 4, Issue 1 - Serial Number 7
August 2025
Pages 109-122

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History

  • Receive Date: 27 March 2025
  • Revise Date: 07 July 2025
  • Accept Date: 22 September 2025

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