Factors Related to Hypochondria Disorders During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Pregnant Women

Abstract

Background: COVID-19, in addition to its physical effects, may cause psychological effects including stress, anxiety, and psychiatric disorders such as hypochondria. Due to stress and anxiety, hypochondria can be associated with unfavorable pregnancy outcomes. Objectives: The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the factors related to hypochondria during the COVID-19 pandemic in pregnant women referred to the health centers of Aligudarz city. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 267 pregnant women referred to the health centers of Aligudarz city, Iran, in 2021 were assessed. The participants were selected by regular quota and random sampling. Demographic and obstetrical information, along with the 36-question Evans hypochondria questionnaire, was completed by the pregnant women. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, t-test, and Pearson's correlation coefficients. Results: The mean hypochondria score in women was 34.1 ± 18.4, with a range of 10 to 67. A total of 31.5% of the pregnant women had no hypochondria, 27.7% had borderline hypochondria, 8.2% had mild hypochondria, 14.2% had moderate hypochondria, and 18.3% had severe hypochondria. Pearson's correlation coefficient revealed a significant and positive correlation between the hypochondria score and age (r = 0.217, P = 0.001), spouse age (r = 0.159, P = 0.009), gestational age (r = 0.170, P = 0.005), abortion (r = 0.490, P = 0.001), and stillbirth (r = 0.159, P = 0.009). Conclusions: During the COVID-19 pandemic, a significant number of pregnant women have hypochondria psychiatric disorders. Pregnant women who are older, have a greater gestational age, or have a history of abortion and stillbirth are more at risk. It is necessary for pregnant women to be screened for hypochondria.