The effect of spouse support during pregnancy on adjustment to pregnancy

Adaptation to the changes experienced during pregnancy is essential. Spousal support is important. Previous research indicates that higher levels of spousal support are associated with improved quality of life, and that inadequate spousal support may be associated with low self-esteem. This study aimed to assess pregnant women's adaptation to pregnancy, the influencing sociodemographic and obstetric factors, and the effect of perceived spousal support on this adaptation. The study included 362 pregnant women who applied to the obstetrics clinics of İstanbul Zeynep Kamil and İstanbul Ümraniye Training and Research Hospitals and agreed to participate. The participants' mean age was 28.35±5.25. The mean score on the Perceived Spousal Support Scale in Pregnancy was 68.42 ± 10.12. Subscale scores were 24.34 ± 5.37 for Cognitive Support, 21.54±3.45 for Emotional Support, and 22.55±2.86 for Material Support. The mean total score of the Prenatal Self-Evaluation Questionnaire was 124.73±21.79. Subscale means were 21.22±6.40 for Thoughts About Her and Her Baby's Health, 19.73±4.60 , 21.41±4.87 for Acceptance of the Maternal Role, 17.57±4.12 for , 19.19±4.91 for Fear of Birth, 12.64±3.54 for Relationship with Her Own Mother, and 13.12±3.68 for Relationship with Her Spouse.As spousal support increased, pregnant women's adaptation, acceptance, and childbirth preparedness improved. It was determined that fear of birth decreased. Healthcare professionals should inform pregnant women and their spouses about spousal support and assess adaptation to pregnancy at each prenatal visit.