Stress across the perinatal period among low-income mothers and the moderating role of perceived social support.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to examine the relationship between pregnancy-specific stress and parenting stress across the perinatal period, as well as the potential for moderation by perceived social support among low-income and diverse mothers.

BACKGROUND

Stress during pregnancy is a common occurrence that is associated with adverse maternal and child health outcomes. Understanding the ways in which stress during pregnancy matters for postnatal stress, as well as protective factors that buffer the negative consequences of stress during pregnancy, are critical for the development of effective interventions.

METHODS

Using a clinic-based sample of women who were recruited at their first prenatal appointment and participated in five online surveys (three prenatal and two post-birth surveys) ( = 124), we used multiple regression analysis to examine the associations between pregnancy-specific stress measured in the third trimester and parenting stress measured at 2 months postpartum, as well as the moderating role of perceived social support measured during the second trimester.

RESULTS

Pregnancy-specific stress was associated with higher postpartum parenting stress and perceived social support was associated with lower parenting stress. In addition, social support attenuated parenting stress among women with low levels of pregnancy-specific stress, but not high levels.

CONCLUSION

Social support can be a useful tool to reduce parenting stress for those with lower levels of pregnancy stress. Future research should investigate reasons for high pregnancy-specific stress and the mechanisms leading to postpartum parenting stress to better understand and prevent adverse maternal and child outcomes.