The Relationship Between Dyadic Coping Strategies and Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms in Pregnant Persons at Risk of Miscarriage

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the relationship between dyadic coping strategies and posttraumatic stress symptoms in pregnant persons at risk of miscarriage. This descriptive relationship-seeking study was conducted with a total of 330 pregnant people who were hospitalized in the obstetrics department of Meram Faculty of Medicine because they were in danger of miscarrying. Data were collected with a personal information form, the Dyadic Coping Inventory, and the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist–Civilian Version. The results were that 241 (73%) of 330 pregnant people at risk of miscarriage had a posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) score above the cut-off point (≥ 23). The pregnant persons' self-perception of their spouse's score on dyadic coping and the low joint dyadic coping behavior score were found to be important factors for PTSD ( P < 0.05). Health care professionals should question the dyadic coping methods used by pregnant people at risk of miscarriage and help them develop better ways of coping. In addition, midwives, nurses, and other health care providers should emphasize to pregnant people in danger of miscarriage who do not have good dyadic coping skills that it is important to use psychological counseling services, and encourage the participation of couples in training programs for coping strategies. [ Psychiatr Ann . 2024;54(1):e24–e32.]