Psychological Impact of Work-Related Stress During Pregnancy

Objective: To investigate the association between work-related stress during pregnancy and psychological symptoms among pregnant women.Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted among 300 pregnant women from 2021 to 2022.Work-related stress was assessed using the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) at baseline and at 28 weeks of gestation.Psychological symptoms were assessed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) at baseline, 28 weeks, and 6 weeks postpartum.Results: Pregnant women who reported higher levels of work-related stress at 28 weeks of gestation had higher levels of psychological symptoms at 6 weeks postpartum, as measured by EPDS and GHQ-12.In addition, pregnant women who reported higher levels of work-related stress at baseline had a higher risk of developing postpartum depression, as measured by EPDS.Conclusion: Our findings suggest that work-related stress during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of psychological symptoms and postpartum depression.Healthcare providers should be aware of this potential risk and provide appropriate support and interventions for pregnant women who experience work-related stress.