Date of Award

12-2023

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Health Policy and Management

First Advisor

Dr. Shelina Bhamani

Second Advisor

Dr. Lumaan Sheikho

Third Advisor

Dr. Kainat

Department

Community Health Sciences

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The impact of family planning and the widespread use of contraceptives is seen in the global drop-in female fertility rates, which fell from 5% in 1960 to 2.4 percent in 2020. Pakistan also had a similar trend, going from 6.7 percent to 3.4 percent. Pakistan still struggles with a comparatively high pregnancy rate, nonetheless, in spite of recent improvements. There are still gender differences in the workforce since women spend a lot more time doing unpaid domestic chores and childcare than men do. Women continue to have lower employment rates than men, and especially in Asia, they are underrepresented in leadership positions. The COVID-19 epidemic has made mental health issues worse, especially for expectant mothers. Women's employment and income opportunities tend to decline after they become mothers. Women are more likely to experience depression, a serious public health concern, especially throughout the reproductive years, such as during pregnancy and the postpartum period. This study, was focused on pregnant working women in metropolitan Karachi, examines the little-studied connection between pregnancy, work-related stress, and mental health. In Pakistan, women are often underrepresented in the workforce due to limited official opportunities. The research aims to unravel the complexities these women face and understand how supportive workplace conditions can impact their mental health, acknowledging the significant influence of high-quality employment on the well-being of new mothers.
OBJECTIVES: This study attempts to discover the connection between pregnant working women's mental health and their working conditions. We also want to find out what barriers AND challenges they encounter at workplace.
METHOD: This concurrent mixed-method cross-sectional study, rooted in the pragmatic paradigm, focuses on understanding the causes, motivations, and beliefs of pregnant working women in 12 indoor settings in Karachi. Utilizing non-random purposive sampling for qualitative data (15 in-depth interviews) and a convenience sample for quantitative data (150 questionnaires), the study examines stress, anxiety, depression, and workplace conditions among full-time indoor office workers aged 15 to 45 in their first to third trimester. Exclusions involve high-risk pregnancies, outdoor/domestic jobs, and major chronic conditions.
RESULT: The quantitative results of the study encompassed data from 150 participants, highlighting demographics, employment details, and awareness of pregnancy-related policies. Notably, 78.67% of participants reported supportive colleagues, yet qualitative findings from in-depth interviews revealed a nuanced perspective. While some women expressed contentment with pregnancy benefits, others expressed concerns about inadequate maternal leaves and challenges in achieving work-life balance. Job-related worries, such as career fears and missed opportunities due to the absence of daycare services, prompted suggestions for remote work and increased family support. Financial issues, physical job demands, job security, and varying workplace support emerged as factors impacting mental health, emphasizing the diverse experiences influenced by individual backgrounds and workplace contexts.
CONCLUSION: Quantitative results showed minimal impact on pregnant women's mental health, but qualitative findings uncovered anxiety and depression linked to inadequate workplace support. Further qualitative research is essential to explore experiences and perspectives shaping improved support for pregnant women.

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