Perceptions of relationship changes during pregnancy in Latinas: A qualitative study

Pregnancy is shaped by complex social dynamics and interpersonal changes that influence how expecting mothers connect with their families and others around them. While social support has been linked to better maternal mental health, less is known about how relationships themselves change during pregnancy. This study explores how pregnant Latinas living in the United States perceive changes in their family, partner, and peer relationships and how these evolving connections influence their sense of support. A subset of 48 pregnant Latinas who participated in a larger study took part in a one-on-one interview conducted in English or Spanish. Participants were recruited from community-based and institutional settings. Thematic analysis revealed three key themes and six subthemes. First, participants described strengthened maternal bonds with their own mothers and other close family members, along with increased relatability with other pregnant women. Second, participants often reported social withdrawal and isolation. This was driven by pregnancy symptoms, exclusion from social activities, and changes in how others treated them as a result of the pregnancy. Third, participants described varied changes in romantic relationship dynamics, including increased emotional distance for some, stability for others, and a desire for greater partner involvement. This study highlights the role of interpersonal relationships in shaping Latina's pregnancy experiences. Changes in family relationships, especially with maternal figures, as well as with partners and peers, influenced participants' emotional well-being and belonging during pregnancy. These findings highlight the need to consider relational dynamics in support efforts for Latinas and their families. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).