Communication skills and anxiety during pregnancy in nulliparous women: A cross-sectional study in an Iranian setting

Background: Physiological and psychological impacts of pregnancy may relate to anxiety symptoms in nulliparous women. An effective communication between couples can have protective effects against anxiety in this period. Objectives: The present study intended to assess the relationship between communication skills and the anxiety during pregnancy in nulliparous women. Methods: This study adhered to a descriptive cross-sectional design. In this study, 100 nulliparous women of 18 to 40 years old were selected through a two-stage cluster sampling in Health Centers of Sari, Iran (2014-2015). We used the Spielberger's questionnaire to measure pregnancy anxiety and Queendom's questionnaire to assess couples' communication skills. Statistical-descriptive methods and Pearson correlation coefficient were used to analyze the data. Results: The mean age of the women participating in the study was 27.15±4.69. The results showed that there was a negative significant correlation between communication skills and state (r=-0.45, p<0.01) and trait anxiety (r=-0.51, p<0.01). However, there was no significant relationship between one of the subscales of communication skills (assertiveness) and state and trait anxiety. Conclusion: This study indicated a negative correlation between communication skills and pregnancy anxiety. Strong communication skills could diminish pregnancy anxiety and eventually lead to higher psychological health.