Impact of maternal stress on outcome of new born

Abstract

Background: Maternal stress which may include emotional, social, health and economy may have impact on newborn. Risks factors predisposing to maternal stress are preventable by taking appropriate measures at right time and hence may have a better outcome of newborn. Maternal risk factors such as stress and depression have been associated with preterm birth and low birth weight. Relatively few studies have been made on impact prenatal maternal stress on neonatal outcome till date. The aim of our study is to asses the impact of maternal stress on fetal outcome.Methods: This study is an observational clinical study, undertaken in Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences hospital, Bangalore, Karnataka, between April 2017 to September 2017. Perceived stress scale(PSS) was used to assess the stress levels of mothers.Results: The association of moderate stress with low birth weight and preterm gestational age was statistically significant (p value <0.001). The amount of stress in relation to maternal age was highest in 20 to30 years (81.5%) of age group. Primigravida were found to have a statistically significant association with maternal stress (p value-0.022). Higher stress levels were observed in lower middle socioeconomic status which was statistically significant (p value-0.050).Conclusions: More than 50% of the pregnant women in our setting were exposed to stress. In stressed pregnant mothers, low birth weight and preterm deliveries were the outcome. Lower socioeconomic status was associated significantly with stress. All pregnant mothers should be counselled to consume nutritious diet to deliver a normal healthy baby.