Psychological Effects of Pregnancy on the Mental Health of Women in Ikenne Local Government Area, Ogun State, Nigeria

Maternal mental health is a critical component of public health, yet psychological distress during pregnancy remains heavily under-diagnosed and under-treated in developing regions. This study examines the psychological effects of pregnancy on the mental health of women in the Ikenne Local Government Area (LGA) of Ogun State, Nigeria. Driven by the Bio, psychological Model and Stress Theory, the research specifically investigates the influence of emotional changes, depression, anxiety, and stress on maternal mental health outcomes. The study used quantitative cross-sectional survey design. Data were gathered via structured questionnaires administered to 62 pregnant women attending selected primary and tertiary healthcare centers in Ikenne LGA. The findings revealed a positive and statistically significant relationship between depression and anxiety and mental health (r = 0.463, p < 0.01), and a strong positive relationship between pregnancy-related stress and mental health (r = 0.825, p < 0.01). These results indicate that psychological distress and unmanaged stress significantly affect the psychological well-being of expectant mothers. The study recommends that integrating routine mental health screening and psychological support into antenatal care is essential. The findings serve as an evidence-based framework for healthcare administrators and social workers to advocate for holistic maternal-fetal outcomes.