Influence of Mother–Father Relationship on Perceived Stress among Black Pregnant Women

Abstract

Background:

Perceived stress during pregnancy has been associated with adverse maternal health and birth outcomes. Compared to White pregnant women, Black pregnant women in the United States report higher levels of perceived stress and experience higher rates of maternal mortality and preterm birth. Mother–father relationship has been associated with perceived stress among pregnant women, though literature among Black pregnant women is limited.

Objective:

We aimed to examine the associations of mother–father relationship with perceived stress among Black pregnant women.

Methods:

Using a cross-sectional, correlational design, we conducted a secondary analysis of data obtained from 418 Black pregnant women enrolled in the Biosocial Impact on Black Births study. Participants completed questionnaires between 19- and 29 weeks gestation with items related to maternal characteristics, measures of the mother–father relationship, including the level of contact, involvement, closeness, support, and conflict with the father of the baby (FOB), and maternal perceived stress.

Results:

Participants who reported lower levels of support (ρ_[416] = −0.279, P < .001) and higher levels of conflict (ρ_[416] = 0.401, P < .001) with the FOB also reported higher levels of perceived stress. Levels of involvement, closeness, support, and conflict with FOB also predicted levels of maternal perceived stress after controlling for covariates.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest that the mother–father relationship significantly influences perceived stress among Black pregnant women, thus warranting further study and intervention.