TITLE:
Psychological Changes in the First Trimester of Pregnancy and Role in Couples for New Family Formation among Primiparous Women
AUTHORS:
Chikako Mochizuki, Yukiko Mochizukii
KEYWORDS:
Marriage Pregnant Women, Primipara, First-Trimester Pregnancy, Psychology, Marital Relationships
JOURNAL NAME:
Health,
Vol.17 No.4,
April
21,
2025
ABSTRACT: Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify the psychological changes experienced by pregnant women during the first trimester in order to establish a new family among married primiparas. Method: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted by semi-structured interviews with 15 married primiparous women attending antenatal health examinations at four medical facilities in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Result: The findings revealed six key categories: “Acceptance of pregnancy,” “Anxiety about the pregnancy process,” “Lack of knowledge about transitioning to motherhood,” “Emotional support,” “Relationship transition from a couple to parents,” and “Adjustment of the living environment to welcome the new baby.” A total of 18 subcategories and 66 codes were identified. Conclusion: The results suggest that it is necessary to increase learning opportunities for couples to acquire the knowledge about pregnancy, childbirth, and childcare from the first-trimester pregnancy. Additionally, incorporating opportunities in prenatal education for couples to discuss and reflect on their roles as mothers and fathers can help them share responsibility for childcare and actively participate in co-parenting.