1 Junior Resident, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital
2 Associate Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital
3 Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital
4 HOD and Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital
Introduction
Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a distressing condition affecting 2–5% of women worldwide, with significant psychological consequences. Women in Tamil Nadu, where societal expectations of motherhood are high, experience increased emotional distress due to RPL. Despite medical advancements, psychological support remains inadequate.
Objectives
This study aims to assess the psychological effect of RPL among women in Tamil Nadu and the impact of its associated factors.
Methods
A prospective observational study was conducted over six months at a private medical institution in Chennai. Using purposive sampling, 100 women with a history of RPL were recruited. Psychological distress was assessed using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, employing chi-square tests to examine associations between psychological distress and demographic/clinical factors.
Results
Among participants, 62% experienced depression, 59% anxiety, and 55% stress. Social support was significantly associated with lower psychological distress (p < 0.05), whereas demographic and clinical factors showed no significant correlation. Despite the high prevalence of distress, only 15% of women sought psychological support.
Conclusion
RPL significantly impacts mental health, with inadequate psychological support exacerbating distress. Strengthening social support systems and integrating mental health interventions into routine care can improve outcomes for affected women. Future research should explore long-term psychological effects and evaluate intervention strategies.
Keywords: Recurrent pregnancy loss, psychological distress, depression, anxiety, social support.
How to cite this article: Priyadharshini D, Nithya R, Pavithra, Meena TS. Psychological Effects of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss in Women - Evaluating the Impact of Social and Clinical Factors: A Prospective Study. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(4): 187-193. DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.4.21
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None