Effects of excessive weight gain during pregnancy on fear of birth and prenatal attachment levels

Authors : Bakiye Akbaş, Zeliha Aydın Kasap, Ayşe Nur Aksoy
Pages : 71-79
Doi:10.21673/anadoluklin.1747260
View : 68 | Download : 283
Publication Date : 2026-01-24
Article Type : Research Paper
Abstract :Aim: This study investigated the effects of excessive weight gain on fear of childbirth and prenatal attachment levels in pregnant women. Methods: This cross-sectional survey study included 121 women aged 18-42 who met the study criteria and had a term pregnancy. The participants were divided into two groups. Group 1: Those who started and completed the pregnancy with a normal body mass index (BMI). Group 2: Those who started pregnancy with a normal BMI but completed pregnancy with a high BMI (>24.9). Data were collected using the Personal Information Form; Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire (W-DEQ); and Prenatal Attachment Inventory (PAI). The primary outcome of the study was fear of childbirth assessed by the W-DEQ; while the secondary outcome was prenatal attachment level measured by the PAI; and its associations with gestational weight gain and term BMI were evaluated. For statistical analysis; a chi-square test; Mann-Whitney U-test; and Student’s T-test were used to compare groups based on categorical or continuous features. Results: Group 1 (n=58) and group 2 (n=63). The gestational weight; term weight; and BMI values of the patients in group 2 were higher than those in group 1 (p<0.05). The mean W-DEQ scores were higher in group 2 than in group 1. A positive correlation was found between the mean W-DEQ scores and weight gain during pregnancy; term weight; and BMI. Excess weight gain during pregnancy increases the fear of childbirth. Conclusion: Excess weight gain during pregnancy can lead to negative pregnancy outcomes by increasing the fear of childbirth. Pregnant women should be informed about proper nutrition; and if necessary; individualized plans should be developed in cooperation with a dietician to maintain weight gain under control. Additionally; investments should be made during the training of healthcare professionals
Keywords : Ağırlık artışı, beden kitle indeksi, doğum, korku, obezite, prenatal bakım

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