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 of this phenomenon, exploring the lived experiences of pregnant women is essential for a deeper understanding of the dimensions of pregnancy anxiety.
Aim: This study aimed to elucidate pregnancy anxiety based on the lived experiences of 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. Data were collected via semi-structured in-depth interviews 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.
Results: Data analysis revealed four main themes and 12 sub-themes: 1) Physiological dimension (symptoms of pregnancy, 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).
Conclusion: The findings confirm the necessity of managing pregnancy anxiety through a multidimensional approach (physiological, psychological, cultural, and socioeconomic). Designing educational-support interventions and revising health policies based on these dimensions represents a critical step toward reducing pregnancy anxiety.
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