Factors associated with perinatal anxiety in adolescents: A scoping review

Adolescents experience high rates of perinatal anxiety disorders. Understanding the factors that contribute to perinatal anxiety among adolescents is important to develop targeted approaches to prevention, identification, and treatment. We aimed to identify key factors associated with perinatal anxiety and related disorders in adolescents in the existing literature.

In this scoping review, we systematically searched four databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, PsycINFO) from their inception to December 2023. Included studies examined variables associated with perinatal anxiety (between conception and 1 year postpartum) in adolescents (19 and under and/or young mothers). Anxiety was defined as inclusive of anxiety, obsessive-compulsive and trauma- and stressor-related disorders and their symptoms. Factors associated with perinatal anxiety were organized into thematic categories and described.

Of 39 included studies, 35 were conducted in higher-income countries. Factors associated with perinatal anxiety fit into 6 categories: (1) support, shame, and stigma; (2) traumatic events; (3) social determinants; (4) pregnancy and birth; (5) intrapersonal factors; and (6) psychiatric history. Variables most strongly associated with increased perinatal anxiety were a lack of positive partner and family support, pregnancy-related stigma, adverse childhood experiences, intimate partner violence, lack of knowledge around pregnancy and newborn health, fears about the capacity to raise a child, and having limited education attainment and a low income. Key protective factors included supportive partners and families, positive healthcare experiences, positive self-perception, resilience, and self-care practices.

The identified factors associated with perinatal anxiety among adolescents can inform targeted interventions to improve outcomes.