Assessing stress and coping in pregnancy and postpartum

This paper evaluates questionnaire measures of stress and coping for use with pregnant and postpartum women. For each area of measurement the main issues or problems are delineated, appropriate measures are described and the validity nd reliability of the measures are discussed, as well as the problems and benefits of using each measure with pregnant or postpartum women. Finally, norms are provided for female and obstetric samples, where available. The following constructs are examined: stress, demands of the infant, social support, coping and repressive coping style. A version of the Hassles and Uplifts Scale that was shortened for use with postpartum women is appended. It is hoped that this paper will provide a valuable resource for future research into stress and coping in pregnant and postpartum women.