Impact of war on psychological status and quality of life of Sudanese pregnant women

Abstract

Background: In war, pregnant women are a particularly vulnerable group requiring extra protection. Traumatic experiences can jeopardize the mental and reproductive health of mothers and harm the development of their unborn children. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the mental health and quality of life of Sudanese pregnant women who are affected by war, and to identify factors associated with the mental health and quality of life of Sudanese pregnant women who are affected by war. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 400 women attending Al Qadarif Hospital. Participants completed a survey including GAD-7 and Quality of Life Questionnaire. Data were analyzed to identify the associations between the psychological status, quality of life and the war. Results: Overall, 66.5% reported a poor quality of life and (62%) revealed that they were dissatisfied with their health. The participants who reported poor quality of life had the following characteristics: aged between 23 and 30 years, the majority (97.8%) were married and less than half (39.6%) were in their first or second trimester of pregnancy Additionally, the majority (88.8%) had no chronic illnesses there were no significant differences in age groups, marital status trimester, and chronic illnesses with quality of life. Conclusion: Pregnant women's psychological health and quality of life are significantly impacted by the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Significantly more participants, especially those with chronic illnesses, reported having moderate-to-severe anxiety. Factors like age, marital status, and trimester phase did not significantly correlate with quality-of-life outcomes, except in the presence of chronic illness, despite the high incidence of reported low quality of life. To lessen the detrimental psychological impacts of conflict on pregnant women in Sudan, these findings emphasize the critical need for accessible mental health support and focused health education initiatives. Meeting these needs can enhance the well-being of this vulnerable population.