The effect of spousal support on sleep quality in pregnant women: A study of socio-demographic data

Indroduction and Aim: Pregnancy is a period marked by numerous physical and psychosocial changes. These changes also affect the sleep quality of pregnant women. Studies in the literature emphasize the importance of sleep quality during pregnancy and the support received from partners. The aim of this study is to examine the effect of sociodemographic data and partner support on sleep quality. In this context, sociodemographic variables such as age, education level, employment status, and gestational age, as well as the perception of spousal support during pregnancy, were examined; the relationship between these factors and sleep quality was evaluated. The study aims to provide a holistic perspective that considers both individual and social factors that may affect sleep quality during pregnancy. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted as a cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study. The study population consisted of pregnant women aged 18-49 who met the inclusion criteria and attended the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department's Pregnancy Follow-up Clinic and Pregnancy School at Çorum Erol Olçok Training and Research Hospital. After obtaining the necessary permissions and approvals, informed consent was obtained from the volunteers, and participants were asked to complete the Sociodemographic Data Form, the Perception of Spousal Support Scale in Pregnant Women, and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. The data were analyzed using Jamovi (version 1.0) software. Results: The study included 240 pregnant women, 41,25% of whom were aged 25-29 and 53,33% of whom were in their third trimester. The participants' mean PUKI score was 6,44 (SD=2,69), with 75% having a PUKI score of 5 or above. Pregnant women aged 35 and over had better sleep quality compared to those aged 18-24 (p=0,036) and 25-29 (p=0,002). Pregnant women in the third trimester had poorer sleep quality compared to those in the first trimester (p=0,001) and second trimester (p=0,001). The total GEDAÖ mean score was 66,76 (SD=12,90). The age of the pregnant woman (p=0,003) and the age of the partner (p=0,004) age of 35 years or older, marriage duration of 5 years or longer (p=0,001), number of pregnancies of 3 or more (p=0,001), having 2 or more living children (p=0,001), and not having a helper in the same household (p=0,035). No significant relationship was found between perceived spousal support during pregnancy and sleep quality (p=0,198). Conclusion: Sleep quality improved with increasing maternal age but was found to be poor in advanced pregnancy weeks. The perception of spousal support among pregnant women was found to be associated with variables such as age, duration of marriage, pregnancy, and number of children. Accordingly, in prenatal care, it is recommended to adopt a holistic approach, inquiring about the sleep profile of pregnant women alongside their medical condition and assessing the level of support within the family. Keywords: Pregnancy, Sleep Quality, Spousal Support