Prevalence and Factors Associated With Pregnancy-Related Anxiety Among Women Attending an Antenatal Clinic in Cameroon.

BACKGROUND

Pregnancy-related anxiety is a significant public health concern, yet evidence on its prevalence and associated factors remains limited in Cameroon. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of pregnancy-related anxiety and identify associated factors among women attending antenatal care service in Cameroon.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant women attending their first antenatal care visit for the current pregnancy. A total of 316 participants were enrolled after providing informed consent. Data were collected using Pregnancy-related Anxiety Questionnaire-Revised 2. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with pregnancy-related anxiety.

RESULTS

The prevalence of PRA was 23.4% (95% CI: 19.1% - 28.4%), with common concerns including fear of giving birth (25.0%), concerns about having a child with health problems or disability (22.15%), and concern about one's appearance (21.20%). Multivariate analysis identified significant factors associated with pregnancy-related anxiety, including younger maternal age (OR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.89 - 0.98, p= 0.015), being a victim of intimate partner violence (OR = 5.23, 95% CI: 1.15 - 23.79, p= 0.002), being primigravida (OR = 6.18, 95% CI: 1.86 - 44.55, p= 0.026), and having a history of stillbirth (OR = 12.4, 95% CI: 1.21 - 26.7, p= 0.034).

CONCLUSION

Nearly one in four pregnant women in this study experienced pregnancy-related anxiety. Younger maternal age, intimate partner violence, primigravidity, and a history of stillbirth were significant risk factors. These findings highlight the need for targeted screening and interventions in antenatal care to address pregnancy-related anxiety and improve maternal mental health outcomes.