Abstract:
Background: Pregnancy-related Anxiety (PRA) has been described as a normal experience in the
anticipation of childbirth. When the anxiety level becomes severe, it results in negative
behavioural outcomes. It also increases the toll on the healthcare system. Studies have indicated
that PRA is different from general anxiety and depression. Unfortunately, most research studies
have focused on maternal depression, leaving a huge vacuum to study PRA. Further, in low
middle-income countries (LMIC) there is a dearth of studies on the prevalence of PRA in LMIC.
Objective: To identify the prevalence and causes of PRA among pregnant women in LMIC
Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in databases such as PubMed, Google
Scholar, Elsevier, and SCOPUS from 2012- 2024. A descriptive literature review approach was
employed to understand the prevalence of PRA among pregnant women in LMIC using 20
articles.
Results: The overall prevalence of PRA in LMIC was 29.2% for antenatal and 24.4% for
postnatal. Specifying to countries, India found a 55.7% prevalence, Tanzania found a 6.1%
prevalence, Ethiopia found a 43.9% prevalence, and in Rwanda, 28.2% of symptoms were
associated with anxiety. The increased financial burden, low socio-economic status, less social
support, and stressful situations have been identified as the contributing factors to the PRA.
Conclusion: Findings underscore the significant concern about PRA in LMIC. Several factors
influence the prevalence of PRA, and the potential impact on mother and child is a pressing issue.
This study highlights the necessity of screening for PRA and providing necessary intervention.
Further research is strongly recommended to understand PRA in these regions better and develop
effective interventions.
