Quality of life and stress in mothers of preterm infant with feeding problems: A cross sectional study

Abstract

BackgroundThe majority of preterm infants experience some oral feeding problems. The outcomes of preterm infants with feeding problems are not predictable. This study was conducted to determine the quality of life and stress among mothers of preterm infants with feeding problems. Materials and methodsParticipants consisted of mothers with preterm infants. The instruments used to measure infants' feedings, mothers' stress and quality of life, and mothers' and infants’ characteristics included: Infants Feeding Readiness Assessment Scale (POFRAS), Parental Stress Scale: Neonate Intensive Care Unit (PSS - NICU), quality of life questionnaire (SF-36), and a socio-demographic questionnaire. ResultsThere was no correlation between the subscales of the PSS - NICU and the POFRAS or between domains of SF-36 and POFRAS. There was no significant association between general physical health and stress. However, general mental health and overall quality of life of mothers were inversely correlated with all PSS-NICU subscales. ConclusionMost maternal stress was related to the infants' appearance and behaviors. The mental health dimension was affected more than the physical health dimension of quality of life. Health care professionals should teach mothers of premature infants about the NICU environment, parental role, and their infants’ appearance and behaviors.