Factors influencing stress, anxiety, and depression among Iranian pregnant women: the role of sexual distress and genital self-image

Abstract Background Pregnancy is a unique period with the increased likelihood of psychological changes and emotional disturbances such as depression, anxiety, stress. In this study, we investigated factors influencing stress in pregnancy identify their associations Sexual Distress (SD) Genital Self-Image (GSI). Methods This was descriptive, correlational, cross-sectional study performed using two-stage cluster sampling method between September 2019 January 2020. Overall, 295 pregnant women completed demographics obstetric information checklist, Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21), Female Scale (FGSI), Scale-Revised (FSDS-R). Results Analysis Variance (ANOVA) showed significant differences mean scores SD groups varying degrees ( P < 0.001) score GSI depression = 0.01) anxiety 0.001). multivariate linear regression analysis, higher (worse) were found more advanced age scores; however, these lower (better) those gestational age. Lower associated moderate satisfaction income, BI pregnancy, linked to planned pregnancy. Higher predictor score, complication previous finally, fear fetal abortion being housewife predictors score. Conclusion Various contribute development antenatal A positive correlation severity stress, while negative noted anxiety. Therefore, raising awareness regarding through screening counseling sessions can have beneficial effects for mothers fetuses.