Abstract:
This thesis looks at the relationship between stress, depression, and preterm births among first-time mothers in Bangladesh. Preterm births are defined as births that happen before 37 weeks of gestation, and they have a lot of health implications for both the mother and the baby. Stress and depression have been identified as potential risk factors for preterm births, but it is unclear how specifically they affect this issue in Bangladesh. The increased number of preterm births has raised concerns in recent years since it presents serious risks to the health of both the mother and the newborn. Preterm birth mechanisms continue to be complicated and multifactorial, despite international efforts to address this issue. The specific experiences of first-time mothers in Bangladesh are the main focus of this study, which also acknowledges the possible interactions between healthcare, cultural, and economic factors that may make this demographic more vulnerable to mental health issues during pregnancy. A mixed-methods strategy is used in the inquiry to collect thorough data, which combines quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. First-time pregnant women's stress and depression levels are measured using standardized instruments as part of the quantitative component. Qualitative interviews, on the other hand, offer a more profound comprehension of the environmental and cultural elements that either exacerbate or lessen the effects of stress and depression on premature births. The results of this study may influence public health policy and focused interventions meant to enhance maternal mental health in Bangladesh. This study adds significant insights to the global conversation on maternal healthcare by highlighting the links between depression, stress, and preterm births in first-time mothers. It also highlights the importance of culturally appropriate methods for addressing mental health issues during pregnancy. In the end, the findings of this research might open the door to more practical approaches to lessen the incidence of preterm deliveries and enhance the general health of mothers and children in Bangladesh and other comparable settings.
