Investigating the Prevalence and Associated Factors of Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms Among Pregnant Women in Bangladesh: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND

Anxiety and depression during pregnancy are significant public health concerns in low- and middle-income countries like Bangladesh, with potential adverse effects on both mothers and infants. However, there is limited research on prenatal mental health in Bangladesh. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of anxiety and depressive symptoms among pregnant women.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted using systematic random samples to recruit participants from a hospital in Dhaka. A total of 227 pregnant women were interviewed with a structured interview, including sociodemographic characteristics, physiological condition, family support, intimate partner violence, obstetric history, and mental health outcomes. Depression and anxiety were measured using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). The tests and multiple logistic regression were used to identify associated factors. The data were analyzed using SPSS software version 26.

RESULTS

Among the 227 participants, 25.1% reported depressive symptoms and 35.7% reported anxiety symptoms. Significant associations were observed between depression and factors such as occupation, relationship with husband, and forced sex. Additionally, anxiety was significantly associated with gestational age. Regression analysis revealed that housewives were less likely to experience depression (AOR = 0.17 [95% CI: 0.05-0.55], -value = 0.003), while participants who experienced forceful sex were at higher risk (AOR = 4.39 [95% CI: 0.97-19.82], -value = 0.0542). Anxiety symptoms were more likely among women in the first trimester (AOR = 2.63, 95% CI: 1.27-5.45, -value = 0.028) and second trimester (AOR = 1.42 [95% CI: 0.71-2.84], -value = 0.028), compared to those in the third trimester.

CONCLUSIONS

Anxiety and depression are prevalent among pregnant women in Bangladesh. Provide special attention and practical support to working women and women in their first and second trimesters when adopting mental health initiatives.