Understanding and measuring pregnancy-related anxiety in low- and middle-income contexts: A pilot study in northern Ghana
Medical Research Council
University for Development Studies
Women's anxiety during pregnancy is widespread and has been associated with poor mental and physical health outcomes for both mothers and their children. One type of anxiety which seems to be particularly problematic is anxiety about the pregnancy itself. We know little about pregnancy-related anxiety in LMICs and there are no measures of pregnancy-related anxiety which have been validated for use in any LMIC. To address this gap, we will conduct a systematic review to get a clear overview of levels of pregnancy-related anxiety and relations with maternal and neonatal mortality. We will also conduct a mixed-methods study to measure how pregnancy-related anxiety is conceptualized and to adapt and validate the Pregnancy Related Anxiety Scale among pregnant women in the Northern Region of Ghana. To do this, we will conduct 15 focus groups (n = 150) and collect survey data from 575 pregnant women attending antenatal care in Mion, Savelugu, and Tamale Metropolitan Districts. We will hire one PDRA and 5 RAs to assist with the systematic review and qualitative and quantitative data collection. We will use inductive thematic analysis to analyse the focus group data. We will use exploratory factor analysis, correlations, and t-tests to establish construct validity, convergent validity, and test-retest reliability of the adapted scale. We will also consult with a local advisory committee to ensure the use of appropriate methods and measures, and to establish face validity of our adapted measure. This project is directly linked with UN Sustainable Development Goal #3 (good health and wellbeing). Without a clear understanding of what underlies pregnancy-related anxiety and how to measure it, we cannot develop and implement effective interventions nor can we evaluate whether any implemented interventions are effective. This project will pave the way for future work promoting mental health during pregnancy and reducing associated maternal mortality and morbidity.
2.3 Psychological, social and economic factors / Research Grant