OBJECTIVES: Many stressors can contribute to the development of anxiety and depression. These conditions affect not only the life of the mother but also the life of the developing fetus as well. The aim of our research was to assess the prevalence of anxiety and depression among gravidas and to determine which socio-demographic and other risk factors influence the development of these disorders.

METHODS: We conducted a quantitative, cross-sectional study in the health visitor service district of Siófok, Hungary between May and October of 2021. Our target population was selected with non-probability targeted sampling method and consisted of diagnosed pregnant women above 18 years. Exclusion criteria were insufficient completion of the survey, foreign origin, and non-attendance on regular pregnant care (n=107). Data collection was done by a survey consisted of both self-administered and standard questionnaires (Beck Depression Inventory, EPDS, MSPSS, RAS-H). Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, ANOVA, Welch-test, independent samples t-test, χ²-test and Fisher's exact test were calculated with Microsoft Office Excel and SPSS 13.0 software (p<0.05).

RESULTS: Mean age of the participants was 28.94±5.57 years. Age, marital status, first trimester and parity did not count as a risk factor at the time of the study (p>0.05). However, low educational level, the fact that the pregnancy is planned, the lack of social support and dissatisfaction with the relationship significantly affected the severity of depression and anxiety (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: Appropriate social support and satisfaction with the relationship could be protecting factors against anxiety and depression. Increased support is needed in case of an unplanned pregnancy and the lower educational level of the mother.