Impact of Stress and Anxiety on Cardiovascular Health in Pregnancy: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Complex biological processes that enable optimal foetal growth throughout pregnancy are linked to notable haemodynamic and metabolic changes in the mother's body. An inability to adapt to these changes can affect cardiovascular health. During pregnancy, women may experience mood swings, anxiety, and emotional ambivalence. These symptoms can lead to stress and harm the mental well-being of expectant mothers. It is crucial to know the aspects that can influence the development of cardiovascular problems among pregnant women. Effective management requires identifying risk factors. Applying the PRISMA ScR guidelines, we conducted a scoping review to explore and summarise the evidence regarding the impact of stress and anxiety on cardiovascular health in pregnant women. The following enquiries were looked into as research topics: What effects do anxiety and stress have on a pregnant woman's cardiovascular health? How is it quantifiable? It is essential to comprehend the physiological changes that the body undergoes throughout pregnancy in order to inform and assist both patients and medical professionals. This makes it possible for them to identify any pathological disorders or risk factors that could worsen the health of expectant mothers. Psychological and cardiovascular risk factor screening, either before or during pregnancy, may be able to uncover circumstances that require specific medical and psychological therapies in order to lower maternal morbidity and death from cardiovascular disease. Our findings underscore the need for systematic psychological and cardiovascular screening during prenatal care to mitigate adverse outcomes and improve maternal-foetal health.

Keywords: anxiety; cardiovascular diseases; foetus; heart disease risk factors; mental health; pregnancy; psychological; stress.

Figure 1

Review process flow chart based on PRISMA ScR principles.