Original Research Article
Year: 2019 | Month: April | Volume: 9 | Issue: 4 | Pages: 156-166
To Assess the Effect of Maternal Mental Health on Engagement in Health Practices during Pregnancy in Selected Hospital at Mangaluru
Shiji Jacob1, Ms Darryl Monica SerafineAranha2, Mrs. Pramila D’souza3
1MSc Nursing student in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Father Muller College of Nursing, Mangaluru.
2Associate Professor, 3Assistant Professor,
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecological Nursing, Father Muller College of Nursing, Mangaluru.
Corresponding Author: Shiji Jacob
ABSTRACT
Background: Pregnancy is often considered the golden period in a woman’s life. There are physical as well as mental challenges faced by them during this period. While apparent physical problems are often addressed but the challenges related to mental health often go undiagnosed. The aim of the present study is to assess the effects of maternal mental health on engagement in health practices during pregnancy.
Method: A quantitative approach was used to assess the effect of maternal mental health on engagement in health practices during pregnancy among women who met the inclusion criteria. 380 participants were selected by using purposive sampling. Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and structured health practice questionnaire were the tools used. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results: The findings of the study revealed that 59.5 % of women showed possible depressive symptoms but the majority of participants (98.9 %) engaged in good health practices. There was no correlation between maternal mental health and engagement in health practices among the participants. It was found that mental health status had a significant association with religion and at the same time, religion and education significantly influenced health practices.
Conclusion: Though the majority of the participants showed possible depressive symptoms, there is good engagement in health practices. Leaflets were prepared which can improve the maternal mental health.
Key words: Engagement in health practice, maternal mental health, Pregnancy, effects.