Study of the Psychophysiological Characteristics of Women across Different Trimesters of Pregnancy

Abstract

Key words: pregnancy, stress, anxiety, sex hormones, health, nervous system Considering the importance of the issue of preserving the health of pregnant women and their babies, we attempted to study some psychophysiological indicators of pregnant women, since one of the main risk factors for their health is stressors. A comparative analysis of the psychophysiological indicators of women in different trimesters of pregnancy was also conducted. Using the methodology for assessing the level of stress by V. Ya. Shcherbatykh and the methodology for assessing the level of individual and situational anxiety by Ch. D. Spielberger, Ya. L. Khanin, it was revealed that half (50 %) of the pregnant women in the surveyed sample from Vanadzor city had an emphasized, high, and dangerous level of stress. These indicators were more highlighted in the first trimester of pregnancy (in 57 % of the surveyed women), in the second trimester the stress level slightly decreases (in 40.7 %), and in the third trimester, there is again a tendency for an increase in the level of stress (in 54.6 %). Almost half (47 %) of the surveyed women had a high level of situational anxiety, and this indicator was also noticeably higher in the first trimester of pregnancy (67 %). Considering the aforementioned, we suggest experts (neuropathologists, psychologists, psychiatrists) monitor the mental and physical well-being of pregnant women, especially during the first three months of pregnancy. This initiative aims to facilitate the timely provision of assistance based on psychophysiological indicators.