A pilot mixed-methods analysis of maternal anxiety and experience following a diagnosis of antenatal hydronephrosis

Antenatal hydronephrosis (ANH), fetal kidney dilation, is a common prenatal diagnosis with variable prognosis that complicates counseling; however, its impact on maternal anxiety remains unknown. This study aimed to assess maternal anxiety and experience following a diagnosis of ANH and examine its relationship to severity. Data were collected from 30 mothers of infants diagnosed prenatally with ANH using the Spielberger State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), an investigator-developed questionnaire, and open-ended questions. Regression and thematic analysis were performed. Results indicated moderate clinically significant anxiety (mean STAI-S 41.5 ± SD). Postnatal anxiety was higher in infants with mild dilation compared to those with moderate and severe dilation (p < 0.05). Qualitative themes included communication, maternal response, prenatal impact, and worry about baby. Mothers with higher STAI were more likely to report anxiety about surgery (p = 0.02) and prenatal management (p = 0.04). Future studies will examine anxiety in larger cohorts of mothers with and without fetal ANH.