Factors influencing the psychological health of pregnant women in advanced maternal age (AMA) during the peripartum period in China

Objective: The age of childbirth for women has been significantly delayed in recent times, leading to an increase in the proportion of pregnant women in advanced maternal age (AMA). Due to increased physiological challenges and higher incidence of pregnancy complications, advanced maternal age women often face greater mental stress, including familial and societal pressures associated with latter-age childbirth. In order to investigate the psychological health of AMA pregnant women during the later stages of pregnancy and peripartum period and identify psychosocial predictors of mental health, we conducted a cross-sectional study on this issue. Methods: Selected primiparous women were assessed at three time points (at the 8th month prenatal examination, the day of delivery and 42 days postpartum). There were 125 eligible pregnant women for enrollment at each time points. Sociodemographic characteristics, psychological concerns, and mental health were measured at these timepoints. Results: The incidence of psychological distress among older peripartum women was significantly higher than among younger women. Increased psychological stress was correlated with concerns about maternal and infant health, fear of labor pain, apprehension regarding personal career development, and worries about family support and financial conditions. Conclusions: The mental health status of older peripartum women is concerning, suggesting the need for psychological support by primary care physicians and other healthcare providers.