Quality of life, dyadic adjustment and psychological distress during transition to parenthood

Abstract

Background: Literature shows that quality of life may change during formative periods as transition to parenthood. This study aims to examine how psychological symptoms and marital adjustment affect general quality of life after childbirth in both mothers and fathers. Methods: Socio-demographic information, quality of life, dyadic (marital) adjustment and psychological distress were assessed. 56 participants (28 couples) completed questionnaires on 3rd trimester of pregnancy and two months after childbirth. Findings: In our sample, there were no significant differences between antenatal and postnatal quality of life, for both male and female. Linear regression analysis showed that postnatal quality of life was predicted (R2adjust=.243) by antenatal psychological distress (β=-.40; p=.002). Moreover, postnatal dyadic adjustment was a mediator in the relation between antenatal psychological distress and postnatal quality of life, meaning that the higher the postnatal dyadic adjustment, the higher the couple’s quality of life after childbirth is. Discussion: Dyadic adjustment had a strong impact on quality of life after childbirth. Therefore, considerate couple-related factors underlying well-being during transition to parenthood may allow adequately supporting couples enhancing their quality of life after childbirth.