Effects of Education and Guided Imagery Program on Stress Level and Coping Behaviors Among Pregnant Women at Risk of Preterm Birth

Purpose: The rate of preterm birth continues to increase worldwide. Pregnant women at risk of preterm birth experience more stress during pregnancy, which directly impacts their mental well-being and preterm birth situation. Stress management can significantly reduce stress and promote appropriate coping behaviors in pregnant women at risk of preterm birth. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of education and guided imagery program on stress level and coping behaviors among pregnant women at risk of preterm birth.

Patients and methods: Forty-eight pregnant women who visited the antenatal care unit at Ramathibodi Hospital and were at risk of preterm birth with moderate stress score were included. They were divided into two groups, each comprising 24 participants. The control group received standard nursing care, whereas the experimental group received an education and guided imagery program in addition to standard nursing care. The Perceived Stress Scale-10 and Coping Behavior Questionnaire were used to collect data.

Results: The results revealed that the mean stress score in the experimental group after receiving the program was lower than before with statistical significance (t = 7.14, p < 0.001). Moreover, the experimental group had lower stress score (F_1,45 = 16.92, p < 0.001) and greater coping behavior score (F_1,45 = 7.85, p < 0.01) compared with the control group after receiving the program, and the differences were statistically significant.

Conclusion: This research highlights the importance of preventing mental health problems in pregnant women at risk of preterm birth by using an education and guided imagery program to decrease stress and promote appropriate coping behaviors.