Previous studies have shown that prenatal anxiety could represent a risk factor for postpartum affective disorders and could also negatively affect fetal development. The aim of this study was to examine the role of perceived stress and coping styles in the development of prenatal anxiety. The sample consisted of 149 pregnant women in their last trimester of pregnancy. They filled out The Perceived Stress Scale, STAI, the revised version of COPE and the demographic information form. The regression analysis has shown that trait anxiety, age, complications during pregnancy and the level of perceived stress were the significant predictors of state anxiety. Considering the higher risk for postpartum depression in pregnant women with high anxiety levels and possible negative effects for the child, the importance of adequate intervention programs during pregnancy is emphasized.

prenatal anxiety, perceived stress, coping styles, pregnancy