HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE IN PREGNANT WOMEN: INSIGHTS FROM A COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION

Abstract

Pregnancy is a transformative period characterized by various physiological, physical, and emotional changes that impact a woman's well-being. As these changes evolve over time, they exert significant effects on the physical, mental, and social aspects of a pregnant woman's life. For example, the increasing size of the uterus can restrict movement and lead to respiratory difficulties. Healthcare professionals, particularly gynecologists and obstetricians, should systematically assess these aspects at different stages of pregnancy using precise measurement tools and observation methods.

Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) serves as a valuable indicator of an individual's mental and physical well-being, reflecting their overall health status, mental and physical functioning, and behavior. The SF-36 quality of life scale, which assesses HRQoL, is a well-established tool developed by Rand Corporation and adapted for the Turkish population. It measures eight dimensions of health-related quality of life, making it a widely used instrument to evaluate the well-being of individuals.

This study aims to investigate the changes in HRQoL among pregnant women across different trimesters. By utilizing the SF-36 scale, we will provide valuable insights into how pregnancy-related physiological and emotional changes impact the overall quality of life of expectant mothers