Relationship between emotional indices and post-traumatic stress disorder in mothers with unsuccessful pregnancy

Abstract

Unsuccessful Pregnancy is a traumatic life event that can lead to significant psychological consequences, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Difficulties in emotion regulation, maladaptive emotion regulation strategies, and anxiety sensitivity have been identified as potential risk factors for PTSD; however, evidence regarding their role following unsuccessful pregnancy remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between emotional regulation, emotion regulation strategies, anxiety sensitivity, and PTSD in women who experienced unsuccessful pregnancy. This cross-sectional study included 70 women diagnosed with PTSD following unsuccessful pregnancy. Participants completed the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS), Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ), and Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI). Multiple linear regression analysis was performed using SPSS version 25 to determine the emotional predictors of PTSD. Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that difficulties in emotion regulation (β = 0.46, P < 0.001), emotional suppression (β = 0.33, P < 0.001), and anxiety sensitivity (β = 0.23, P = 0.001) were significant positive predictors of PTSD symptoms. Reappraisal was not significantly associated with PTSD. Women with PTSD following unsuccessful pregnancy exhibited greater emotional dysregulation, higher reliance on emotional suppression, and increased anxiety sensitivity. These findings highlight the importance of integrating psychological screening and emotion-focused interventions into routine post-unsuccessful-pregnancy care to facilitate early identification of women at risk for persistent PTSD and improve long-term psychological outcomes.