The Relationship between Anxiety Levels in Third-Trimester Pregnant Women and Childbirth Method Planning in Denpasar, Bali

Abstract

Introduction: Problems related to childbirth included the increasing rate of caesarean section (SC) procedures, which were often triggered by anxiety about the normal delivery process. Anxiety also influenced decision-making, including the planning of the method of delivery. Aims: This study aimed to determine the relationship between anxiety levels among third-trimester pregnant women and birth planning at Denpasar, Bali Study Design:  This was an observational analytic study with a cross-sectional design. Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at South Denpasar IV Community Health Center from March 6 to April 10, 2026. Methodology: The study population included all third-trimester pregnant women who visited South Denpasar IV Community Health Center. A total of 51 pregnant women were selected using a non-probability sampling technique with purposive sampling. Data were collected using the validated PRAQ-R2 questionnaire. The inclusion criteria included third-trimester pregnant women with a gestational age of 27–40 weeks, while the exclusion criteria included women who were unable to read and write. Univariate and bivariate analyses were performed using the Chi-Square test with the assistance of SPSS. Results: Univariate analysis showed that the majority of respondents were aged 20–35 years (94.1%), had a higher level of education (56.9%), worked as civil servants (29.4%), were predominantly primiparous (60.8%), and had no history of pregnancy complications (94.1%). The Chi-Square test showed a significant relationship between the anxiety levels of third-trimester pregnant women and the planning of the delivery method (p = 0.000). Conclusion: In conclusion, higher anxiety levels in third-trimester pregnant women are significantly associated with the preference for cesarean section delivery. Providing education through antenatal classes is recommended to reduce anxiety and support informed decision-making regarding delivery methods.