Functioning and quality of life in different gestational trimesters: a cross-sectional study

• Grant number: 24/02757-6
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: July 01, 2024
• End date: June 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
• Principal Investigator: Helen Cristina Nogueira Carrer
• Grantee: Bianca de Lima Archanjo
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde (CCBS). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: Maternal morbidity and mortality may be linked to the intense changes in a woman's life during pregnancy, a phase marked by physiological, psychological, and social alterations. Daily living activities and social participation can be affected during this period of a woman's life. Furthermore, experiencing negative situations may impact a woman's quality of life, potentially affecting her functionality. Objective: This study aims to delineate the functional profile and assess the quality of life of Brazilian pregnant women in different trimesters of gestation. Method: This is an observational and cross-sectional study, following the guidelines of the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) checklist. Brazilian pregnant women aged 18 or older undergoing prenatal care will be included. An instrument will be used to collect personal and sociodemographic data, along with two questionnaires: the World Health Organization Quality of Life Bref and the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0. Demographic data will be analyzed descriptively. The assessment of functionality and quality of life will be conducted using One-Way ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis, with a significance level of 5%. Expected Results: Identifying the functionality profile of women in each gestational trimester can provide valuable information for a personalized approach in promoting health during pregnancy. It is expected that symptoms will vary throughout the trimesters, and the observed functionality in each trimester is anticipated to have an impact on the quality of life.