Sleep quality and its predictors among pregnant women: A cross-sectional study.

The study aims to explore sleep quality among pregnant women and identify possible factors predicting poor sleep quality, including sociodemographic, clinical, lifestyle, and psychological factors. The study aims to explore sleep quality among pregnant women and identify possible factors predicting poor sleep quality, including sociodemographic, clinical, lifestyle, and psychological factors. 

The cross-sectional study was conducted from July 4, 2021, to January 10, 2022. Pregnant women were recruited during their regular visits to the gynecology and obstetrics clinics and hospitals in northern Jordan. The number of participants was 206. They completed questions about sociodemographic, pregnancy, and women’s health history. Additionally, participants completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Pregnant Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Descriptive statistics were used to analyze sleep quality, and a multivariable linear regression model was used to identify significant predictors of the PSQI total score. 

Among the 206 pregnant women, 76.6% reported poor sleep quality (PSQI total score >5). Multivariable linear regression results showed that increased age (β= 0.125, 95%CI [.042 - .208], p .003) and low educational level (high school or lower vs. higher education) (β= 1.097, 95% CI= [.033 - 2.161],   p = .043) are a significant predictors of poor sleep quality. We found out having leg cramps (β= 1.578, 95%CI [.627 - 2.529],  p 0.001) and having anemia during pregnancy (β= 1.311, 95%CI [.131 - 2.492],   p=0.030)  and increased anxiety (β= 0.355, 95%CI [0.258 - .452], p 0.001) are significant predictors of higher sleep quality total score, indicated poorer sleep quality.

Poor sleep is highly prevalent among pregnant women, due to factors such as age, education, anxiety, and medical conditions. Clinicians should consider this high prevalence and the possible associated factors in the assessment and management of sleep quality to improve the health and quality of life of pregnant women.

The study results advocate for integrating sleep quality evaluations into prenatal care by physiotherapists. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of educating expectant mothers about sleep hygiene and addressing modifiable factors that may improve sleep quality.