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Walker-Mao C, Farewell CV, Nagle-Yang S, Blackwell S, Leiferman JA. Adverse childhood experiences predict anxiety during postpartum and early childhood parenting. J Psychosom Obstet Gynaecol 2024; 45:2410203. [PMID: 39431449 DOI: 10.1080/0167482x.2024.2410203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 09/13/2024] [Accepted: 09/17/2024] [Indexed: 10/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Perinatal anxiety disorders (PAD) affect one in five pregnant/postpartum people and are associated with adverse maternal and child health outcomes. Effective treatment and prevention rely on early identification and management of risk factors. Our study fills a gap in literature about how maternal adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) relate to PAD during and beyond the postpartum period. Using longitudinal data from a population-based sample of mothers in Colorado, USA (N = 1116), we evaluated whether maternal ACEs predicted self-reported anxiety symptoms, measured six times between 3 and 36 months postpartum. A mixed mean model of anxiety was fit with ACEs as the predictor and maternal age, race, ethnicity, education, marital status, and parity as covariates. Controlling for sociodemographic covariates, mothers reporting four or more ACEs had significantly higher levels of anxiety than those reporting less than four ACEs (b = 0.84, 95% CI (0.53, 1.15), p<.001) over the three-year period. Mothers of younger age at time of birth (25-34 years vs. <24 years: b=-0.54, 95% CI (-1.00, -0.08), p=.02) and non-Hispanic ethnicity (b = 0.47, 95% CI (0.09, 0.85), p=.01) were also found to have higher anxiety over this period. Our findings support screening for and addressing maternal ACEs early in obstetric care and well-child visits through trauma-informed, strengths-based approaches that promote maternal, child, and intergenerational well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea Walker-Mao
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Charlotte V Farewell
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO, USA
- Rocky Mountain Prevention Research Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Sarah Nagle-Yang
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Sarah Blackwell
- Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Jenn A Leiferman
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO, USA
- Rocky Mountain Prevention Research Center, Aurora, CO, USA
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Verhelst P, Sels L, Lemmens G, Verhofstadt L. The role of emotion regulation in perinatal depression and anxiety: a systematic review. BMC Psychol 2024; 12:529. [PMID: 39358735 PMCID: PMC11448051 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-024-02033-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 09/24/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders are highly prevalent and comorbid during the perinatal period. Although research and clinicians agree that emotion regulation (ER) is an important transdiagnostic factor underlying both disorders in the general population, ER during the perinatal period has received less research attention. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the literature regarding the role of ten commonly studied ER strategies in the onset and maintenance of perinatal depression and anxiety in pregnant women and young mothers, using the Process Model of Gross (1998) as a theoretical framework. METHODS We searched four electronic databases with variations of the following key words: women; emotion regulation (i.e., behavioral approach, behavioral avoidance, problem solving, support seeking, distraction, rumination, reappraisal, acceptance, expressive suppression, and expressive engagement); perinatal period; and psychopathology. The aim was to identify peer-reviewed, and quantitative studies published between January 1999 and January 2023. Six articles were selected for analysis. RESULTS Similar ER strategies emerged as risk and protective factors in perinatal depression and anxiety. Overall, behavioral avoidance, distraction, rumination, and expressive engagement appeared as risk factors, while problem solving, emotional and instrumental support seeking, cognitive reappraisal, and acceptance, emerged as protective factors in the onset and maintenance of perinatal depression and anxiety. These findings align with previous research in perinatal community samples, as well as in non-perinatal clinical samples. CONCLUSIONS Our results support the role of ER as a transdiagnostic factor underlying both perinatal depression and anxiety. Clinicians are encouraged to implement ER strategies into the screening, prevention, and treatment of perinatal depression and anxiety. Further research is needed to strengthen these findings and to examine the role of emotion regulation during antenatal depression and anxiety more closely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Verhelst
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, UGent, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Laura Sels
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, UGent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gilbert Lemmens
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UGent, Ghent, Belgium
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Werner E, Le HN, Babineau V, Grubb M. Preventive interventions for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders: A review of selected programs. Semin Perinatol 2024; 48:151944. [PMID: 39048416 DOI: 10.1016/j.semperi.2024.151944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) have high prevalence rates and profound deleterious effects on birthing people, families, and society. Counseling interventions have been shown to be effective and carry minimal risk. We review here the protocols and clinical trial data of four preventive counseling interventions that are effective at preventing PMADs. We present the Mothers and Babies (MB) program, a cognitive-behavioral preventive intervention, and Reach Out, Stay Strong, Essentials for mothers of newborns (ROSE), an interpersonal psychotherapy preventive intervention. We also present Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Perinatal Depression (MBCT- PD), a preventive intervention that combines a cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based approach, and Practical Resources for Effective Postpartum Parenting (PREPP), a parent-infant dyadic intervention with psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, and psychoeducational elements. We recommend that screening for risk of PMADs (not just current mood symptoms) and providing preventive interventions to those at risk should be included as part of standard obstetrics care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Werner
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, USA.
| | - Huynh-Nhu Le
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, USA
| | - Vanessa Babineau
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, USA
| | - Myrriam Grubb
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, USA
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Inness BE, Furtado M, Barrett E, Stallwood E, Streiner DL, McCabe RE, Green SM. Psychometric properties of the PSWQ in a sample of pregnant and postpartum women. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2024; 42:880-895. [PMID: 37139571 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2023.2209101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)-characterised by excessive and uncontrollable worry-is the most frequently diagnosed anxiety disorder during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Identification of GAD often relies on assessment of its cardinal feature, pathological worry. The Penn State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ) is the most robust measure of pathological worry to date but has not been extensively evaluated for use during pregnancy and the postpartum period. This study evaluated the internal consistency, construct validity, and diagnostic accuracy of the PSWQ in a sample of pregnant and postpartum women with and without a principal GAD diagnosis. METHODS One hundred forty-two pregnant and 209 postpartum women participated in this study. Sixty-nine pregnant and 129 postpartum participants met criteria for a principal diagnosis of GAD. RESULTS The PSWQ demonstrated good internal consistency and converged with measures assessing similar constructs. Pregnant participants with principal GAD scored significantly higher on the PSWQ than those with no psychopathology and postpartum participants with principal GAD scored significantly higher than those with principal mood disorders, other anxiety and related disorders, and no psychopathology. A cut-off score of 55 and 61 or greater was determined for detecting probable GAD during pregnancy and the postpartum period, respectively. Screening accuracy of the PSWQ was also demonstrated. CONCLUSIONS This study underscores the robustness of the PSWQ as a measure of pathological worry and probable GAD and supports its use in the detection and monitoring of clinically significant worry symptoms during pregnancy and postpartum period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Briar E Inness
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Melissa Furtado
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emily Barrett
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emma Stallwood
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - David L Streiner
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Randi E McCabe
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Anxiety Treatment and Research Clinic, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sheryl M Green
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Women's Health Concerns Clinic, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Gallant F, Cooley K, Grigoriadis S, Ebrahimi N. Targeting maternal gut microbiome to improve mental health outcomes-a pilot feasibility trial. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1414291. [PMID: 39171074 PMCID: PMC11335611 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1414291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Perinatal depression and anxiety (PDA) is prevalent in new and expectant mothers, affecting millions of women worldwide. Those with a history of mood and anxiety disorders are at the greatest risk of experiencing PDA in a subsequent pregnancy. Current safety concerns with pharmacological treatments have led to a greater need for adjunctive treatment options for PDA. Changes in the composition of the microbiome have been associated with various diseases during pregnancy, and these changes are thought to play some role in perinatal mood disorders. While the relationship between PDA and the microbiome has not been explored, evidence suggests that nutritional interventions with fiber, fish oils, and probiotics may play a favorable role in neuropsychiatric outcomes during and after pregnancy. The primary objective of the present study is to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a combination of nonpharmacological interventions to maintain stability in pregnant women who have a history of depression and/or anxiety. This study will also aim to understand ease of recruitment and protocol adherence in this cohort. Methods This is a single-centered, partially randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind feasibility trial. One hundred pregnant women with a history of depression and/or anxiety/PDA will be recruited and randomized into one of four arms, which could include the following: receiving a daily dose of both investigational products and dietary counseling on increasing dietary fiber, receiving a daily dose of both investigational drugs only, receiving fish oil investigational product and placebo, and a control arm with no intervention. The study involves six study visits, all of which can be conducted virtually every 3 months from the time of enrollment. At all study visits, information on diet, mental health, physical activity, and sleep quality will be collected. Additionally, all participants will provide a stool sample at each visit. Discussion It is anticipated that pregnant women with a history of depression and anxiety will be particularly interested in partaking in this trial, resulting in favorable recruitment rates. Given the positive findings of omega-3 fatty acids (O3FAs) and probiotic supplements on mental health symptoms in nonpregnant adults, we expect a similar trend in PDA symptoms, with a low likelihood of adverse events. This study will build the foundation for larger powered studies to further contribute evidence for the efficacy of this potential preventative treatment option. Trial registration This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials/gov on October 6, 2023; NCT06074250. Trial Sponsor: The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, 1255 Sheppard Ave E, Toronto, ON M2K 1E2, 416-498-1255.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faith Gallant
- Rehabilitation Nevena Christina Case Management and Occupational Therapy Services (NCCO), Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kieran Cooley
- Department of Research and Clinical Epidemiology, Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM), Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Human Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- National Center for Naturopathic Medicine, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia
| | - Sophie Grigoriadis
- Women’s Mood and Anxiety Center, Reproductive Transitions, Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Neda Ebrahimi
- Department of Research and Clinical Epidemiology, Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM), Toronto, ON, Canada
- Women’s Mood and Anxiety Center, Reproductive Transitions, Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Tembo C, Portsmouth L, Burns S. Cultural and social factors associated with generalized anxiety disorder among adolescent mothers during the postpartum period in Malawi: a cross-sectional survey. BMC GLOBAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 2:50. [PMID: 39681924 DOI: 10.1186/s44263-024-00080-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 12/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The postnatal period is an important time for adolescent mothers to regain their health as they adjust to life with their infants. However, it is also a time when mothers are vulnerable to mental health problems. Generalized anxiety disorders (GADs) are among the common mental disorders that can impact mothers. Anxiety disorders can have adverse effects on a child's cognitive development. However, there is a scarcity of studies pertaining to anxiety disorders among adolescent mothers in Malawi. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted among adolescent postnatal mothers aged ≤ 19 years to establish the prevalence of probable GAD and identify cultural and social factors that influence anxiety in this population. Adolescent mothers were recruited from the Mitundu Rural Hospital catchment area in Lilongwe district, Malawi. A two-stage random sampling method was employed: clinics were randomly selected, and participants were recruited via systematic random sampling. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale was used to assess anxiety. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. RESULTS Of the 395 adolescent mothers who participated, 34% were aged 14-17. The prevalence of probable GAD (GAD-7 ≥ 10) was 31.9%. Increased social support decreased the odds of probable GAD (aOR 0.95, 95% CI: 0.91-0.98, p < 0.001). Experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) increased the likelihood of probable GAD (aOR 4.80, 95% CI: 1.23-18.82, p = 0.02), while those who had contact with a health worker postnatally (aOR 0.38, 95% CI: 0.17-0.83, p = 0.02) and those who were "not prayerful" (aOR, 0.43, 95% CI: 0.21-0.87, p = 0.02) were less likely to report probable GAD. CONCLUSIONS Given that the prevalence of probable GAD among adolescent mothers in Malawi is higher compared to the global estimates of their peers, policies and guidelines that prioritize the maternal mental health of adolescent mothers in Malawi are required. The findings also highlight the importance of enhancing social support among family and community. Co-designed mental health promotion, prevention, and early interventions to involve health workers and religious leaders are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chimwemwe Tembo
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia.
- Saint John of God Hospitaller Services, Mzuzu, Malawi.
| | - Linda Portsmouth
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Sharyn Burns
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
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Hoberg MG, Demirci JR, Sereika SM, Levine MD, DeVito Dabbs A. Mixed-Methods Assessment of Maternal Anxiety During the First 8 Weeks After Birth. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2024; 53:368-382. [PMID: 38325800 PMCID: PMC11246815 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2024.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe and compare the experiences of postpartum anxiety among women with generalized anxiety and postpartum-specific anxiety. DESIGN Prospective, longitudinal, mixed methods. SETTING Academic tertiary center in the mid-Atlantic United States. Study activities were remote. PARTICIPANTS Women at 1 to 8 weeks after birth (N = 34). METHODS We used mobile surveys to measure daily anxiety ratings and responses to open-ended, theory-driven questions about anxiety. We used the cutoff scores on the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and Postpartum Specific Anxiety Scale administered 8 weeks after birth to determine the presence of generalized and postpartum-specific anxiety. Participants' responses were analyzed with qualitative description and sorted by anxiety questionnaire scores at 8 weeks after birth. We compared qualitative findings between participants with generalized anxiety and postpartum-specific anxiety. RESULTS Participants with generalized anxiety had high levels of overwhelm and felt ill-equipped to handle daily stressors, whereas those with postpartum-specific anxiety felt adept at coping. Participants with generalized anxiety lacked emotional and physical support, and those with postpartum-specific anxiety reported more physical but variable emotional support. Sources of daily anxiety in participants with postpartum-specific anxiety were infant-centric (e.g., infant health, end of maternity leave, breastfeeding), whereas anxiety sources for participants with generalized anxiety were varied (e.g., self-health, partner concerns). Participants with generalized anxiety versus postpartum-specific anxiety were more likely to be multiparous and have comorbid depression symptoms. CONCLUSION Symptoms, levels of perceived support, and sources of anxiety differed between participants with generalized versus postpartum-specific anxiety. Our findings can inform postpartum anxiety screening strategies and support interventions.
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Feng AH, Stanhope KK, Jamieson DJ, Boulet SL. Postpartum Psychiatric Outcomes following Severe Maternal Morbidity in an Urban Safety-Net Hospital. Am J Perinatol 2024; 41:e809-e817. [PMID: 36130668 DOI: 10.1055/a-1948-3093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Severe maternal morbidity (SMM) may be associated with postpartum psychiatric morbidity. However, the direction and strength of this relationship remain unclear. Our goal was to estimate the association between SMM and postpartum inpatient mental health care utilization. STUDY DESIGN We examined all liveborn deliveries at a large, safety-net hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, from 2013 to 2021. SMM at or within 42 days of delivery was identified using International Classification of Disease codes. The primary outcome of interest was hospitalization with a psychiatric diagnosis in the year following the delivery. We used inverse probability of treatment weighting based on propensity scores to adjust for demographics, index delivery characteristics, and medical, psychiatric, and obstetric history. We fit log-binomial models with generalized estimating equations to calculate adjusted risk ratios (aRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS Among 22,233 deliveries, the rates of SMM and postpartum hospitalization with a psychiatric diagnosis, respectively, were 6.8% (n = 1,149) and 0.8% (n = 169). The most common psychiatric diagnosis was nonpsychotic mood disorders (without SMM 0.4%, n = 79; with SMM 1.7% n = 24). After weighting, 2.2% of deliveries with SMM had a postpartum readmission with a psychiatric diagnosis, compared with 0.7% of deliveries without SMM (aRR: 3.2, 95% CI: [2.0, 5.2]). Associations were stronger among individuals without previous psychiatric hospitalization. CONCLUSION Experiencing SMM was associated with an elevated risk of postpartum psychiatric morbidity. These findings support screening and treatment for mild and moderate postpartum psychiatric disorders in the antenatal period. KEY POINTS · Experiencing SMM was associated with three-fold excess risk of postpartum psychiatric admission.. · Experiencing SMM was not associated with an elevated risk of outpatient psychiatric care use.. · Experience SMM was not associated with outpatient psychiatric morbidity diagnoses..
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Affiliation(s)
- Alayna H Feng
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Kaitlyn K Stanhope
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Denise J Jamieson
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Sheree L Boulet
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
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Heissel JA, Healy OJ. Mental Health Treatment Rates During Pregnancy and Post Partum in US Military Service Members. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2413884. [PMID: 38814641 PMCID: PMC11140539 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.13884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Although new parents' mental health is known to decline, less is known about changes in therapy attendance, especially among military service members. Objective To investigate changes in therapy attendance among new parents and by parental leave length. Design, Setting, and Participants This cohort study of US Army and Navy service members from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2019, compared parents' monthly therapy attendance with matched nonparents' across childbirth and compared mothers' weekly therapy attendance before vs after returning to work. Eligible monthly sample members included service members with first births from January 1, 2014, to December 31, 2017, and 12 months of data before to 24 months after birth and nonparents with 36 months of data. Eligible weekly sample members included mothers with first births from January 1, 2013, to June 30, 2019, and data from 12 months before to 6 months after birth and nonparents with 18 months of data. Data analysis was performed from July 1, 2023, to January 15, 2024. Exposure Those exposed to parenthood had no prior children, acquired a dependent younger than 1 year, and, for mothers, had an inpatient birth. Unexposed matches did not add a dependent younger than 1 year. Main Outcomes and Measures Monthly counts of mental health therapy sessions and any therapy sessions (weekly). Results The monthly sample included 15 554 193 person-month observations, representing 321 200 parents and matches, including 10 193 mothers (3.2%; mean [SD] age, 25.0 [4.9] years), 50 865 nonmother matches (15.8%; mean [SD] age, 25.0 [5.0] years), 43 365 fathers (13.5%; mean [SD] age, 26.4 [4.8] years), and 216 777 nonfather matches (67.5%; mean [SD] age, 26.4 [4.8] years). The weekly sample included 17 464 mothers. Mothers went to 0.0712 fewer sessions at 1 month post partum (95% CI, -0.0846 to -0.0579) compared with 10 months before birth. Fathers went to 0.0154 fewer sessions in the month of birth (95% CI, -0.0194 to -0.0114) compared with 10 months before. Parents with preexisting treatment needs had larger decreases in treatment. Weekly therapy attendance increased by 0.555 percentage points (95% CI, 0.257-0.852) when mothers returned to work from 6 weeks of leave and 0.953 percentage points (95% CI, 0.610-1.297) after 12 weeks of leave. Conclusions and Relevance In this cohort study of new parents, therapy attendance decreased around childbirth, especially among parents with prior mental health needs and mothers with longer maternity leaves. These findings suggest that more accessible treatment, including home visits or telehealth appointments, is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Olivia J. Healy
- Department of Economics, Elon University, Elon, North Carolina
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Sapkota D, Dennison S, Thompson C. Mental Disorders Among Mothers in Contact with the Criminal Justice System: A Scoping Review and Meta-analysis. Community Ment Health J 2024; 60:699-712. [PMID: 38280144 PMCID: PMC11001689 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-023-01222-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
This scoping review critically assessed evidence regarding mental disorders among mothers involved with the criminal justice system (CJS) and provided pooled prevalence rates of mental disorders. In total, 27 studies were included in the review, with 23 studies from the United States of America and 26 focused on incarcerated mothers. The findings supported the evidence on substantial burden of mental disorders, among CJS-involved mothers. Several factors contributing to mental disorders were identified, including history of abuse/incarceration/mental illness, a greater number of pregnancies, child-rearing responsibilities, less contact with children, and poor social support, which were organised using a socioecological model. However, significant gaps in the current evidence base were apparent, including inconsistencies in methodologies and outcomes assessed and a lack of large, longitudinal studies. The study highlights the importance of high-quality longitudinal research to extend knowledge around causal pathways between different risk or protective factors and mental disorders among CJS-involved mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diksha Sapkota
- Griffith Criminology Institute, Griffith University, 176 Messines Ridge Road, Mount Gravatt, QLD, 4122, Australia.
| | - Susan Dennison
- Griffith Criminology Institute, Griffith University, 176 Messines Ridge Road, Mount Gravatt, QLD, 4122, Australia
- School of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Griffith University, Mount Gravatt, QLD, Australia
| | - Carleen Thompson
- Griffith Criminology Institute, Griffith University, 176 Messines Ridge Road, Mount Gravatt, QLD, 4122, Australia
- School of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Griffith University, Mount Gravatt, QLD, Australia
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Zimmermann M, Moore Simas TA, Howard M, Byatt N. The Pressing Need to Integrate Mental Health into Obstetric Care. Clin Obstet Gynecol 2024; 67:117-133. [PMID: 38281172 DOI: 10.1097/grf.0000000000000837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Mental health and substance use conditions are prevalent among perinatal individuals. These conditions have a negative impact on the health of perinatal individuals, their infants, and families, yet are underdiagnosed and undertreated. Populations that have been marginalized disproportionately face barriers to accessing care. Integrating mental health into obstetric care could address the perinatal mental health crisis. We review perinatal mental health conditions and substance use, outline the impact associated with these conditions, and describe the promise and potential of integrating mental health into obstetric settings to improve outcomes for patients receiving obstetric and gynecologic care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tiffany A Moore Simas
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, UMass Chan Medical School/UMass Memorial Health Memorial Campus, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Margaret Howard
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Nancy Byatt
- Department of Psychiatry, UMass Chan Medical School, Shrewsbury
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12
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Miller ML, Jiang LJ, O'Hara MW. Experiential avoidance as a mediator of risk factors for higher order internalizing psychopathology in the perinatal period. J Clin Psychol 2024; 80:625-645. [PMID: 38265296 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Perinatal psychopathology can be damaging. This study examined the strength of the associations between risk factors and all perinatal mood and anxiety disorder symptoms while assessing the mediating effect of experiential avoidance. METHOD Participants (N = 246) completed assessments during pregnancy (28-32 weeks) and the postpartum (6-8 weeks). Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to examine associations between risk factors and latent factors: distress (composed of depression, generalized anxiety, irritability, and panic symptoms); fear (social anxiety, agoraphobia, specific phobia, and obsessive-compulsive); and bipolar (mania and obsessive-compulsive). RESULTS During pregnancy, past psychiatric history, anxiety sensitivity, maladaptive coping, and age were significant risk factors. In the postpartum, negative maternal attitudes and past psychiatric history were only risk factors for symptoms that composed distress. Experiential avoidance mediated the relation between maladaptive coping and symptoms that composed fear. CONCLUSION It is important to assess for psychological risk factors starting in pregnancy. This study identified critical risk factors that are associated with the underlying commonality among perinatal mood and anxiety symptoms. Some of the risk factors as well as the mediator are malleable (negative maternal attitudes, experiential avoidance), creating new possibilities for prevention and treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorder symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L Miller
- University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Lily J Jiang
- Indiana University-Bloomington, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
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Abdelhafez M, Ahmed K, Ahmed N, Ismail M, Mohd Daud MNB, Ping NPT, Eldiasty A, Amri MFB, Jeffree MS, Kadir F, pg Baharuddin DM, Bolong MFB, Hayati F, BtAzizan N, Sumpat D, Syed Abdul Rahim SS, Abdel Malek EH. Psychiatric illness and pregnancy: A literature review. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20958. [PMID: 37954333 PMCID: PMC10632674 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Women of reproductive age frequently suffer from psychiatric disorders. The risk of developing anxiety, bipolar, and depressive disorders is especially significant during the perinatal period. Objectives This article aims to identify and discuss the different psychiatric conditions that might affect pregnant women and update the mother's carers about the recent and updated bidirectional relationship between psychiatric disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes, As well as the most updates in diagnostic and management strategies. Methods A thorough analysis of the literature was conducted using database searches in EMBASE, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed to obtain the objectives and aim of the study. Results The presence of maternal mental illness during pregnancy has been linked to preterm delivery, newborn hypoglycemia, poor neurodevelopmental outcomes, and disturbed attachment. Placental anomalies, small-for-gestational-age foetuses, foetal discomfort, and stillbirth are among more undesirable perinatal outcomes. Conclusions Pregnancy-related psychiatric disorders are frequent. The outcomes for pregnant women, infants, and women's health are all improved by proper diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- MohsenM.A. Abdelhafez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
| | - KarimA.M. Ahmed
- Department of Dermatology, Helios Saint Johannes Klinikum, Duisburg, Germany
| | - NashwaA.M. Ahmed
- Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dental and Oral Surgery, Ahram Canadian University, Egypt
| | - MohdHamdy Ismail
- Owner and Leading Clinician, Ulti Care Dental Clinics, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohd Nazri Bin Mohd Daud
- Family Medicine Unit, Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Nicholas Pang Tze Ping
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
| | - AyaM. Eldiasty
- Department of Dermatology, Helios Saint Johannes Klinikum, Duisburg, Germany
| | - Mohd Fariz Bin Amri
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Mohammad Saffree Jeffree
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Fairrul Kadir
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Dg Marshitah pg Baharuddin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Mohammed Firdaus Bin Bolong
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Firdaus Hayati
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - Nornazirah BtAzizan
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Doreen Sumpat
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
| | | | - Ehab Helmy Abdel Malek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
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Okun ML, Lac A. Postpartum Insomnia and Poor Sleep Quality Are Longitudinally Predictive of Postpartum Mood Symptoms. Psychosom Med 2023; 85:736-743. [PMID: 37506301 DOI: 10.1097/psy.0000000000001234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Insomnia and poor sleep quality are frequently reported by perinatal women. Both are noted to increase the risk of postpartum depression, with less known about their association with postpartum anxiety. This study sought to assess whether perinatal sleep disturbances predicted depression and anxiety symptoms across each month of the first 6 months postpartum in women with a history of depression. METHODS Pregnant women without active depression at enrollment ( N = 159), 18 to 45 years of age, were recruited. In late pregnancy and for up to 6 months postpartum, women completed monthly online questionnaires including the Insomnia Symptom Questionnaire, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7. Repeated-measures multilevel models were used to predict depression and anxiety across the postpartum. RESULTS The prevalence of insomnia was 20.4%, and the prevalence of poor sleep quality was 67.8% across the first 6 months postpartum. Postpartum insomnia and poor sleep quality at the between-subject and within-subject levels tended to uniquely predict greater depressive and anxiety symptoms, even after controlling for demographic characteristics, prenatal insomnia, and prenatal poor sleep quality. CONCLUSIONS Most of the women in our sample had sleep disturbances across the perinatal period. Consistent with the extant literature, postpartum insomnia and poor sleep quality, but not prenatal measures of sleep, longitudinally predicted greater postpartum depression and anxiety symptoms. The chronic sleep deprivation of insomnia and the subjective experience of poor sleep quality are uniquely relevant risks of postpartum mood disorders. Evaluation and mitigation of perinatal sleep disturbance are ideal opportunities to reduce postpartum mood disorders and subsequent health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele L Okun
- From the Biofrontiers Center (Okun) and Department of Psychology (Lac), University of Colorado Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs, Colorado
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15
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Spinoni M, Singh Solorzano C, Grano C. The impact of prepartum pandemic-related perceived stress on anxiety symptoms in the postpartum: The role of perceived childbirth experiences. J Anxiety Disord 2023; 99:102762. [PMID: 37647729 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2023.102762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Postpartum anxiety is a significant component of postpartum maternal distress and is related to adverse outcomes for both the mother and the child. Although previous research reported higher anxiety symptoms in pregnant women during the Covid-19 pandemic, no studies evaluated the negative impact of pandemic-related perceived stress on postpartum anxiety symptomatology over time. This study aimed to examine the impact of prepartum pandemic-related stress on postpartum anxiety and to evaluate the role of subjective labor and delivery experiences on this relationship. A sample of 172 pregnant women completed an online questionnaire evaluating pandemic-related perceived stress and anxiety symptoms in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. In the postpartum, they completed a second questionnaire retrospectively evaluating their childbirth experience and assessing anxiety symptoms in the last two weeks. A mediation analysis was conducted. Prepartum pandemic-related perceived stress was significantly associated with postpartum anxiety symptoms. Moreover, childbirth experiences significantly and partially mediated this relationship. Findings highlighted the importance of evaluating perceived stress levels during pregnancy to prevent negative consequences on postpartum mental health. Clinicians need to foster better management of factors included in the childbirth experience that may potentially trigger or counteract anxiety risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Spinoni
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Dei Marsi, 78, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Caterina Grano
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Dei Marsi, 78, 00185 Rome, Italy.
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Zimmermann M, Julce C, Sarkar P, McNicholas E, Xu L, Carr C, Boudreaux ED, Lemon SC, Byatt N. Can psychological interventions prevent or reduce risk for perinatal anxiety disorders? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2023; 84:203-214. [PMID: 37619299 PMCID: PMC10569160 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2023.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Little is known about the extent to which interventions can prevent perinatal anxiety disorders. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine whether interventions can decrease the onset and symptoms of perinatal anxiety among individuals without an anxiety disorder diagnosis. METHOD We conducted a comprehensive literature search across five databases related to key concepts: (1) anxiety disorders/anxiety symptom severity (2) perinatal (3) interventions (4) prevention. We included studies that examined a perinatal population without an anxiety disorder diagnosis, included a comparator group, and assessed perinatal anxiety. We included interventions focused on perinatal anxiety as well as interventions to prevent perinatal depression or influence related outcomes (e.g., physical activity). RESULTS Thirty-six studies were included. No study assessing the incidence of perinatal anxiety disorder (n = 4) found a significant effect of an intervention. Among studies assessing anxiety symptom severity and included in the quantitative analysis (n = 30), a meta-analysis suggested a small standardized mean difference of -0.31 (95% CI [-0.46, -0.16], p < .001) for anxiety at post intervention, favoring the intervention group. Both mindfulness (n = 6), and cognitive behavioral therapy approaches (n = 10) were effective. CONCLUSIONS Interventions developed for perinatal anxiety were more effective than interventions to prevent perinatal depression. Psychological interventions show promise for reducing perinatal anxiety symptom severity, though interventions specifically targeting anxiety are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha Zimmermann
- UMass Chan Medical School, 222 Maple Avenue - Chang Building, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, United States of America.
| | - Clevanne Julce
- UMass Chan Medical School, 222 Maple Avenue - Chang Building, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, United States of America
| | - Pooja Sarkar
- UMass Chan Medical School, 222 Maple Avenue - Chang Building, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, United States of America
| | - Eileen McNicholas
- UMass Chan Medical School, 222 Maple Avenue - Chang Building, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, United States of America
| | - Lulu Xu
- UMass Chan Medical School, 222 Maple Avenue - Chang Building, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, United States of America
| | - Catherine Carr
- UMass Chan Medical School, 222 Maple Avenue - Chang Building, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, United States of America
| | - Edwin D Boudreaux
- UMass Chan Medical School, 222 Maple Avenue - Chang Building, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, United States of America
| | - Stephenie C Lemon
- UMass Chan Medical School, 222 Maple Avenue - Chang Building, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, United States of America
| | - Nancy Byatt
- UMass Chan Medical School, 222 Maple Avenue - Chang Building, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, United States of America
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Shariatpanahi M, Faramarzi M, Barat S, Farghadani A, Shirafkan H. Prevalence and risk factors of prenatal anxiety disorders: A cross-sectional study. Health Sci Rep 2023; 6:e1491. [PMID: 37614287 PMCID: PMC10442528 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Studies regarding the risk factors of prenatal anxiety disorders are inconclusive and sometimes contradictory. The current study aimed to define the prevalence and risk factors for anxiety disorders in women during pregnancy. Methods This is a cross-sectional and hospital-based survey of two public hospitals (Ayatollah Rohani and Yahyanejad) of inpatients/outpatients, obstetric wards/clinics, and four private outpatient obstetric clinics in the city of Babol. Convenience sampling was utilized to recruit 432 pregnant women. A trained clinical psychologist conducted the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5) to diagnose anxiety disorders. In addition, the Brief Symptom Inventory 18 (BSI-18) was completed by the participants to assess the severity of psychological distress. Results Of 432 pregnant women, 132 (30.5%) were diagnosed with anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders included 61 cases of pregnancy adjustment disorder (47.7%), 52 cases of generalized anxiety disorder (40.6%), and 15 cases of specific phobia (to delivery) (11.7%). The logistic regression results showed that the age, pregnancy, education, parity, and high-risk pregnancy variables predicted 28% of the variance of anxiety disorders. Furthermore, as the age (β = 0.94, p = 0.003) and gestational age (β = 0.9, p < 0.001) increased, the probability of anxiety disorders in pregnancy decreased. Moreover, university education (β = 1.65, p = 0.049) and high-risk pregnancy (β = 1.72, p = 0.02) were recognized as risk factors for developing anxiety disorders during pregnancy. Conclusion The high incidence of anxiety disorders in pregnant women suggests that obstetricians should pay more attention to identifying and treating anxiety disorders in all pregnant women, especially in high-risk pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojgan Shariatpanahi
- Department of Psychology, Saveh Branch Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch Saveh Iran
| | - Mahbobeh Faramarzi
- Department of General Courses, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Health Research Institute Babol University of Medical Sciences Babol Iran
| | - Shahnaz Barat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Infertility and Health Reproductive Research Center, Health Research Institute Babol University of Medical Sciences Babol Iran
| | - Azadeh Farghadani
- Department of Psychology, Saveh Branch Islamic Azad University Saveh Iran
| | - Hoda Shirafkan
- Department of Statistic and Epidemiology, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Health Research Institute Babol University of Medical Sciences Babol Iran
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Scandurra C, Mezzalira S, Aviani S, Lastra V, Bochicchio V, Zapparella R, Saccone G, Maldonato NM, Locci M. Perinatal depression during the fourth wave of the COVID-19 outbreak in a single prenatal clinic in Southern Italy: The role of loneliness, anxiety, and maternal support. JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS REPORTS 2023; 13:100585. [PMID: 37152681 PMCID: PMC10141786 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadr.2023.100585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The current study aimed at assessing the levels of perinatal depression (i.e., both antenatal and postnatal) during the fourth wave of the COVID-19 outbreak in a group of Italian women, as well as to evaluate the role of loneliness, anxiety, and lack of maternal support in cumulatively predicting perinatal depression. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with 200 Italian women recruited during a peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy (i.e., from September to December 2021) from a single prenatal clinic in Southern Italy. A non-parametric binomial test was conducted to assess whether the perinatal depression frequencies of the current sample differed from those found in a pre-Covid reference group. Additionally, hierarchical multiple linear regression analyses assessing whether loneliness, anxiety, and maternal support affected women's perinatal depression were also conducted. Results The general prevalence of perinatal depression was significantly higher in participants recruited during the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the pre-Covid reference group (29% vs. 9.2%). However, results showed that, contrary to postnatal depression (18.2% vs. 19.9%), only the prevalence of antenatal depression was significantly higher compared to the pre-Covid reference group (39.6% vs. 6.4%). Furthermore, loneliness and anxiety, but not maternal support, were associated with higher levels of PD. Limitations Limitations concerned the cross-sectional nature of the study and the relatively small sample size. Conclusions This study sheds light on the need to address perinatal mental health of women during major stressful events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano Scandurra
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, Napoli 80133, Italy
| | - Selene Mezzalira
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Calabria, Via Ponte Bucci Cubo 18/C, Rende 87036, Italy
| | - Silvia Aviani
- Intradepartmental Program of Clinical Psychology, Federico II University Hospital, Via Sergio Pansini 5, Napoli 80133, Italy
| | - Valeria Lastra
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, Napoli 80133, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Bochicchio
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Calabria, Via Ponte Bucci Cubo 18/C, Rende 87036, Italy
| | - Rosanna Zapparella
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, Napoli 80133, Italy
| | - Gabriele Saccone
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, Napoli 80133, Italy
| | - Nelson Mauro Maldonato
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, Napoli 80133, Italy
| | - Mariavittoria Locci
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, Napoli 80133, Italy
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19
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Screening and Diagnosis of Mental Health Conditions During Pregnancy and Postpartum: ACOG Clinical Practice Guideline No. 4. Obstet Gynecol 2023; 141:1232-1261. [PMID: 37486660 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To review evidence on the current understanding of mental health conditions in pregnancy and postpartum, with a focus on mood and anxiety disorders, and to outline guidelines for screening and diagnosis that are consistent with best available scientific evidence. The conditions or symptoms reviewed include depression, anxiety and anxiety-related disorders, bipolar disorder, suicidality, and postpartum psychosis. For information on psychopharmacologic treatment and management, refer to American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) Clinical Practice Guideline Number 5, "Treatment and Management of Mental Health Conditions During Pregnancy and Postpartum" (1). TARGET POPULATION Pregnant or postpartum individuals with mental health conditions. Onset of these conditions may have predated the perinatal period or may have occurred for the first time in pregnancy or the first year postpartum or may have been exacerbated in that time. METHODS This guideline was developed using an a priori protocol in conjunction with a writing team consisting of one specialist in obstetrics and gynecology and one maternal-fetal medicine subspecialist appointed by the ACOG Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines-Obstetrics and two external subject matter experts. ACOG medical librarians completed a comprehensive literature search for primary literature within Cochrane Library, Cochrane Collaboration Registry of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, PubMed, and MEDLINE. Studies that moved forward to the full-text screening stage were assessed by two authors from the writing team based on standardized inclusion and exclusion criteria. Included studies underwent quality assessment, and a modified GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) evidence-to-decision framework was applied to interpret and translate the evidence into recommendation statements. RECOMMENDATIONS This Clinical Practice Guideline includes recommendations on the screening and diagnosis of perinatal mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, acute postpartum psychosis, and the symptom of suicidality. Recommendations are classified by strength and evidence quality. Ungraded Good Practice Points are included to provide guidance when a formal recommendation could not be made because of inadequate or nonexistent evidence.
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Koire A, Feldman N, Erdei C, Mittal L, Liu CH. Postpartum experiences among individuals with suspected and confirmed prenatal generalized anxiety disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic: Implications for help-seeking. Psychiatry Res 2023; 323:115169. [PMID: 36989907 PMCID: PMC10010836 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a common and underdiagnosed condition with negative health consequences to both the pregnant individual and child. Here we studied the relationship between diagnosis and treatment status of GAD during pregnancy (no GAD diagnosis, suspected but not diagnosed, diagnosed but not treated, diagnosed and treated) during the COVID-19 pandemic and postpartum mental health outcomes, while considering the potential influence of individual psychological factors such as distress tolerance and resilience and the role of COVID-19-related health worries. In this sample of predominantly highly educated and white birthing individuals, one in five respondents experienced GAD during pregnancy and another one in six suspected GAD but was not diagnosed. Amongst those with a GAD diagnosis, 30% did not receive treatment. We found that those with a GAD diagnosis during pregnancy who did not receive treatment showed the highest levels of postpartum anxiety and depressive symptoms in the postpartum, even after controlling for covariates, and experienced the most COVID-19-related health worries. In comparison, individuals with a GAD diagnosis during pregnancy who received treatment experienced significantly lower anxiety symptom burden and depressive symptom burden, with a symptom burden similar to those without a confirmed or suspected diagnosis after controlling for individual psychological factors. We conclude that clinicians should strongly consider screening for and treating prenatal anxiety to prevent suboptimal postpartum mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Koire
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, USA 02115,Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA, USA 02115
| | - Natalie Feldman
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, USA 02115,Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA, USA 02115
| | - Carmina Erdei
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA, USA 02115,Department of Pediatric Newborn Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 221 Longwood Ave. Boston, MA, USA 02115
| | - Leena Mittal
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, USA 02115,Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA, USA 02115
| | - Cindy H. Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, USA 02115,Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA, USA 02115,Department of Pediatric Newborn Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 221 Longwood Ave. Boston, MA, USA 02115,Corresponding Author: Cindy H. Liu, Tel: 617-525-4131, 221 Longwood Ave., BLI 341, Boston, MA 02115
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21
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Siafaka V, Tsonis O, Christogiannis C, Kontouli KM, Margariti K, Barbalia Z, Flindris S, Manifava E, Paschopoulou KI, Tzioras S, Baltogianni M, Mavridis D, Paschopoulos M. Psychometric properties of the Greek versions of the Pandemic-Related Pregnancy Stress Scale and the Pandemic-Related Postpartum Stress Scale and associated risk factors during the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic. BJPsych Open 2023; 9:e25. [PMID: 36721918 PMCID: PMC9970181 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2022.635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has affected perinatal mental health. Reliable tools are needed to assess perinatal stress during pandemic situations. AIMS To assess the psychometric properties of the Greek versions of the Pandemic-Related Pregnancy Stress Scale (PREPS) and the Pandemic-Related Postpartum Stress Scale (PREPS-PP) and to explore the associations between women's characteristics and perinatal stress during the second pandemic wave. METHODS The PREPS and PREPS-PP were completed by 264 pregnant and 188 postpartum women, respectively, who also completed the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and the Edinburgh Perinatal Depression Scale (EPDS). RESULTS The internal consistency was similar for PREPS and PREPS-PP. It was good for preparedness stress (a = 0.77 and α = 0.71, respectively) and infection stress (α = 0.83 for both scales) but low for positive appraisal (α = 0.46 and α = 0.41, respectively). Of the pregnant women, 55.33% and 55.27%, respectively, reported scores of ≥40 on STAI-S and STAI-T, and the respective percentages for the postpartum women were 47.34% and 46.80%. In addition, 14.39% of the pregnant women and 20.74% of the postpartum women scored ≥13 on the EPDS. Higher preparedness stress on PREPS and PREPS-PP was associated with primiparity (P = 0.022 and P = 0.021, respectively) and disrupted perinatal care (P = 0.069 and P = 0.007, respectively). In postpartum women, higher infection stress was associated with chronic disease (P = 0.037), primiparity (P = 0.02) and perceived risk of infection (P = 0.065). Higher score on infection stress was associated with disrupted perinatal care in both groups (P = 0.107 and P = 0.010, respectively). CONCLUSIONS The Greek versions of PREPS and PREPS-PP are valid tools for the assessment of women at risk of perinatal stress during a health crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Orestis Tsonis
- Assisted Conception Unit, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Christos Christogiannis
- Evidence Synthesis Methods Team, Department of Primary Education, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Katerina-Maria Kontouli
- Evidence Synthesis Methods Team, Department of Primary Education, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Kalypso Margariti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Zoe Barbalia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Stefanos Flindris
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Eleni Manifava
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | | | | | - Maria Baltogianni
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Dimitris Mavridis
- Evidence Synthesis Methods Team, Department of Primary Education, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Minas Paschopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
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Çankaya S, İbrahimoğlu T. Stress, anxiety, intolerance of uncertainty, and psychological well-being characteristics of pregnant women with and without threatened miscarriage: a case-control study. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2022; 42:3577-3583. [PMID: 36534048 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2022.2158319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine the stress, anxiety, intolerance of uncertainty, and psychological well-being of pregnant women with and without threatened miscarriage. This is a case-control study. The research was carried out between January 2022 and March 2022 in the early pregnancy service and obstetrics clinic of the only training and research hospital in a province in the Central Anatolian Region of Turkey. Two hundred and one pregnant women with threatened miscarriage constituted the study group and 201 pregnant women without threatened miscarriage constituted the control group. A total of 402 pregnant women were included in the study. Stress, anxiety, and intolerance of uncertainty were found to be important risk factors affecting the psychological well-being of pregnant women with threatened miscarriage at a rate of 52% (F = 63,196, p < 0.001). In addition, the pregnant women with threatened miscarriage had higher levels of stress, anxiety, and intolerance of uncertainty, and their psychological well-being was considerably lower compared to pregnant women without threatened miscarriage (p < 0.05). There was a moderate and negative relationship between psychological well-being and intolerance of uncertainty (p < 0.05). It was determined that stress, anxiety, and uncertainty of pregnant women with threatened miscarriage were considerably higher compared to controls, and their psychological well-being was adversely affected. Health professionals should evaluate the levels of anxiety, stress, intolerance of uncertainty, and psychological well-being of pregnant women, especially in the routine follow-up of pregnant women with threatened miscarriage, and they should provide holistic care, not only physiologically but also bio-psychosocially.IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? Although there are many studies on the emotional and psychological effects of miscarriage, there are limited studies on the effect of threatened miscarriage on the mental health of pregnant women.What do the results of this study add? Stress, anxiety, and intolerance to uncertainty were found to be important associated risk factors that negatively affect the psychological well-being of pregnant women with threatened miscarriage. It was determined that the pregnant women with threatened miscarriage had higher levels of stress, anxiety, intolerance to uncertainty, and their psychological well-being was much lower than the pregnant women without threatened miscarriage. It was determined that there was a moderate and negative relationship between the mean psychological well-being of pregnant women and the mean scores of intolerance to uncertainty.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? This is the first case-control study to examine the determination of stress, anxiety, intolerance to uncertainty and psychological well-being of pregnant women with and without threatened miscarriage. Health professionals should evaluate the anxiety, stress, intolerance of uncertainty levels and psychological well-being of pregnant women, especially in the routine follow-up of risky pregnant women, and should provide holistic care not only physiologically but also bio-psychosocially to these pregnant women with a holistic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyhan Çankaya
- Department of Midwifery, Health Sciences Faculty of Selcuk University, Konya, Turkey
| | - Tuğba İbrahimoğlu
- Department of Midwifery, Health Sciences Faculty of Selcuk University, Konya, Turkey
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Silverwood VA, Bullock L, Turner K, Chew-Graham CA, Kingstone T. The approach to managing perinatal anxiety: A mini-review. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1022459. [PMID: 36590629 PMCID: PMC9797985 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1022459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Perinatal Anxiety (PNA) is defined as anxiety occurring during pregnancy and up to 12 months post-partum and is estimated to affect up to 20% of women. Risk factors for PNA are multiple and can be classed as psychological, social and biological. PNA negatively impacts on the mother, child and family. PNA is not well-recognized and diagnosis of PNA can be challenging for clinicians. There is currently no validated case-finding or diagnostic test available for PNA. PNA has been less extensively researched than perinatal depression (PND). Clinical guidance currently recommends pharmacological and psychological therapies for the management of women with PNA, however the limited research available suggests that other intervention types may also be effective with some evidence on the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions in primary care for PNA. This article provides a mini-review of PNA, summarizing current evidence around PNA including risk factors, the impact of PNA, the process of diagnosis of PNA and focussing predominantly on available management options for PNA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laurna Bullock
- School of Medicine, Keele University, Staffordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Katrina Turner
- Centre of Academic Primary Health Care, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Carolyn A. Chew-Graham
- School of Medicine, Keele University, Staffordshire, United Kingdom
- Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Trust Headquarters, St George's Hospital, Stafford, United Kingdom
- Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) West Midlands, Keele University, Staffordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Tom Kingstone
- School of Medicine, Keele University, Staffordshire, United Kingdom
- Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Trust Headquarters, St George's Hospital, Stafford, United Kingdom
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Esquivel Lauzurique M, Vera Fernández Y, Dennis CL, Rubén Quesada M, Álvarez Valdés G, Lye S, Tamayo-Pérez V. Prevalence, Incidence, and Persistence of Postpartum Anxiety, Depression, and Comorbidity: A Cohort Study Among Women in Havana Cuba. J Perinat Neonatal Nurs 2022; 36:E15-E24. [PMID: 36288446 DOI: 10.1097/jpn.0000000000000662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence, incidence, and persistence of postpartum anxiety, depression, and comorbid symptoms over the first 6 months postpartum in a cohort of Havana women and to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive power of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) at 4 weeks postpartum on depressive and anxiety symptoms at 12 and 24 weeks. METHOD A cohort study with 273 women in Havana, Cuba. Participants were assessed at 4, 12, and 24 weeks postpartum for anxiety, depression, and comorbid symptoms. RESULTS Prevalence rates were highest at 4 weeks postpartum: 20.0% women reported elevated levels of anxiety and 16.4% reported depressive symptoms. The prevalence of comorbid anxiety and depression was 5.8%. While rates of anxiety steadily decreased to 13.8% at 24 weeks, rates of depression persisted to 24 weeks postpartum with 14.5% still experiencing elevated symptoms. Comorbid anxiety and depression decreased across time. There were limited sensitivity and poor predictive values for both the STAI and the EPDS. CONCLUSION This study is the first to examine perinatal mental illness in Cuba. While anxiety and depression rates found among Cuban women are lower than those reported in other low-income countries, the rates paralleled high-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Esquivel Lauzurique
- Faculty of Medical Sciences Victoria de Girón (Dr Rubén Quesada), University of Medical Sciences of Havana, Havana, Cuba; School Health Department, Institute of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Microbiology, Havana, Cuba (Drs Esquivel Lauzurique and Tamayo-Pérez); Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum-Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Drs Vera Fernández and Lye); Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, and Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Dr Dennis); and Polyclinic Julián Grimau, Havana, Cuba (Dr Álvarez Valdés)
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Buultjens M, Gill J, Fielding J, Lambert KA, Vondeling K, Mastwyk SE, Sloane S, Fedele W, Karimi L, Milgrom J, von Treuer K, Erbas B. Maternity care during a pandemic: Can a hybrid telehealth model comprising group interdisciplinary education support maternal psychological health? Women Birth 2022; 36:305-313. [PMID: 36184532 PMCID: PMC9551992 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2022.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background The transition to parenthood is one of the most challenging across the life course, with profound changes that can impact psychological health. In response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), came the rapid implementation of remote antenatal care, i.e., telehealth, with fewer in-person consultations. A change in service delivery in addition to the cancellation of antenatal education represented a potential threat to a woman’s experience – with likely adverse effects on mental health and wellbeing. Aim To explore a hybrid model of pregnancy care, i.e., telehealth and fewer in-person health assessments, coupled with concurrent small group interdisciplinary education delivered via video conferencing, extending into the postnatal period. Methods Using a quasi-experimental design with an interrupted time series and a control group, this population-based study recruited low-risk women booking for maternity care at one community health site affiliated with a large public hospital in Victoria, Australia. Findings Whilst there was no difference in stress and anxiety scores, a significant interactive effect of the hybrid model of care with time was seen in the DASS depression score (−1.17, 95% CI: −1.81, −0.53) and the EPDS (−0.83, 95% CI: −1.5, −0.15). Discussion The analyses provide important exploratory findings regarding the positive effects of a hybrid model of care with interdisciplinary education in supporting mental health of first-time mothers. Conclusion This study demonstrates that small group online education scheduled in conjunction with individual pregnancy health assessments can be executed within a busy antenatal clinic with promising results and modest but dedicated staff support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Buultjens
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Jessica Gill
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jennifer Fielding
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Katrina A Lambert
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kirsty Vondeling
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sally E Mastwyk
- School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sarita Sloane
- School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Wendy Fedele
- School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Leila Karimi
- School of Applied Health, Psychology Department, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Jeannette Milgrom
- Parent-Infant Research Institute (PIRI), Australia and Melbourne School of Psychological Science, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Bircan Erbas
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
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Evans K, Moya H, Lambert M, Spiby H. Developing a training programme for midwives and maternity support workers facilitating a novel intervention to support women with anxiety in pregnancy. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:662. [PMID: 36008799 PMCID: PMC9403963 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04996-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The RAPID-2 intervention has been developed to support women with symptoms of mild-to-moderate anxiety in pregnancy. The intervention consists of supportive discussions with midwives, facilitated discussion groups and access to self-management materials. This paper reports the development of a training programme to prepare midwives and maternity support workers to facilitate the intervention. METHODS Kern's six-step approach for curriculum development was used to identify midwives and maternity support workers training needs to help support pregnant women with anxiety and facilitate a supportive intervention. The stages of development included feedback from a preliminary study, stakeholder engagement, a review of the literature surrounding midwives' learning and support needs and identifying and supporting the essential process and functions of the RAPID intervention. RESULTS Midwives' reported training needs were mapped against perinatal mental health competency frameworks to identify areas of skills and training needed to facilitate specific intervention mechanisms and components. A training plan was developed which considered the need to provide training with minimal additional resources and within midwives' scope of practice. The training plan consists of two workshop teaching sessions and a training manual. CONCLUSION Future implementation is planned to include a post-training evaluation of the skills and competencies required to fully evaluate the comprehensive programme and deliver the RAPID-2 intervention as planned. In addition, the RAPID-2 study protocol includes a qualitative evaluation of facilitators' views of the usefulness of the training programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry Evans
- University of Nottingham, School of Health Sciences, Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2HA UK
| | - Helen Moya
- Moya CBT, Loughborough, Leicestershire UK
| | | | - Helen Spiby
- University of Nottingham, School of Health Sciences, Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2HA UK
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McCardel RE, Loedding EH, Padilla HM. Examining the Relationship Between Return to Work After Giving Birth and Maternal Mental Health: A Systematic Review. Matern Child Health J 2022; 26:1917-1943. [PMID: 35907125 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-022-03489-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The negative impacts of mental health disorders on the well-being of women and their infants are clear. However, less is known about the relationship between returning to work after giving birth and mental health. Previous reviews examined the relationship between maternity leave and mental health, but we defined return to work as the process of returning to part-time or full-time work after giving birth and caring for infant. This systematic review aims to: (1) describe operational definitions for return to work and (2) describe the evidence on the relationship between return to work and maternal mental health. METHODS We searched PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Web of Science for peer-reviewed studies. Articles were selected if they were published within the past 20 years, examined at least one mental health condition (e.g., depression, anxiety), and included a study sample of U.S. working mothers. RESULTS We identified 20 articles published between 2001 and 2020. We found conflicting evidence from longitudinal and cross-sectional data demonstrating that return to work was associated with improvements and negative consequences to mental health. Work-related predictors of mental health included: access to paid maternity leave, work-family conflict, total workload, job flexibility, and coworker support. DISCUSSION This review provides evidence that return to work and mental health are related, though the study samples have limited generalizability to all U.S. working mothers. More research is needed to understand the direction of this relationship throughout the perinatal period and how return to work affects other mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, stress).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Elizabeth McCardel
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, University of Georgia, 100 Foster Road, 145 Wright Hall, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
| | - Emily Hannah Loedding
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, University of Georgia, 100 Foster Road, 145 Wright Hall, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Heather Marie Padilla
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, University of Georgia, 100 Foster Road, 145 Wright Hall, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
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Deutsch AR, Vargas MC, Lucchini M, Brink LT, Odendaal HJ, Elliott AJ. Effect of individual or comorbid antenatal depression and anxiety on birth outcomes and moderation by maternal traumatic experiences and resilience. JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS REPORTS 2022; 9:100365. [PMID: 35966253 PMCID: PMC9373828 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadr.2022.100365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although antenatal depression and anxiety (e.g., negative antenatal mental health; NAMH) are individually associated with preterm birth (PTB) and infant neurological impairment, few studies account for comorbidity. Understanding how NAMH impacts PTB and infant neurological functioning by either singular (depression or anxiety) or comorbid status, as well as the way in which these effects can be moderated by additional risk or protective factors (traumatic experiences and trait resiliency) can contribute further understanding of NAMH effects on birth outcomes. Methods The sample included 3042 mother-infant dyads from U.S. and South Africa cohorts of the Safe Passage Study (N = 3042). A four-category NAMH variable was created to categorize depression-only, anxiety-only, comorbid, or no NAMH statuses. Results There were no NAMH main effects on PTB, however, anxiety-only and comorbid NAMH increased odds of PTB for mothers with higher rates of traumatic life experiences. Anxiety-only and comorbid NAMH were associated with increased odds of newborn neurological impairment, and the effect of comorbid NAMH was stronger for mothers with higher rates of traumatic experiences. Resiliency decreased odds of neurological impairment for mothers who reported depression-only or anxiety-only NAMH. Limitations Limitations included potential artefacts of two cohorts that differed in rates of almost all variables, a single time point for measuring NAMH, and lack of pregnancy-specific NAMH measures. Conclusions Especially when compared to mothers with no NAMH, comorbidity or singular-condition NAMH statuses associate with negative birth outcomes in nuanced ways, especially when considering additional contexts that may foster or protect against NAMH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arielle R. Deutsch
- Avera Research Institute
- University of South Dakota School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics
| | | | - Maristella Lucchini
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, Division of Developmental Neuroscience
| | - Lucy T. Brink
- Stellenbosch University, School of Medicine and Health Science, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
| | - Hein J. Odendaal
- Stellenbosch University, School of Medicine and Health Science, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
| | - Amy J. Elliott
- Avera Research Institute
- University of South Dakota School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics
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The Relationship between Social Support and Postnatal Anxiety and Depression: Results from the Listening to Mothers in California Survey. Womens Health Issues 2022; 32:251-260. [PMID: 35246352 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2022.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) impact multiple domains of maternal and child well-being. Estimates of postpartum depressive symptoms range from 6.5% to 12.9% and from 8.6% to 9.9% for postpartum anxiety. We sought to identify the role social support could play in mitigating PMADs. METHODS The data are drawn from the Listening to Mothers in California survey; results are representative of women who gave birth in 2016 in a California hospital. The Patient Health Questionnaire-4 was used to assess total symptoms of PMADs and anxiety and depressive symptoms individually. Two questions adapted from the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey were used to assess emotional, practical, and functional (combined) social support. After exclusions for missing data related to PMADs or social support, we analyzed data from 2,372 women. RESULTS At the time of survey administration (mean 5.7 months after birth), 7.0% of respondents reported elevated PMAD symptoms and 45.9% reported that they always received functional social support. In multivariable analysis, controlling for demographic and pregnancy-related factors and prenatal anxiety and depressive symptoms, women who reported consistent support had a prevalence of elevated PMAD symptoms one-half that of those who did not (adjusted odds ratio, 0.50; 95% confidence interval, 0.34-0.74). CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that consistent social support serves as a robust protective factor against postpartum symptoms of PMADs. Because many predictors of PMADs are not modifiable, social support stands out as an important target for programmatic intervention, particularly in light of increased isolation related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Prom MC, Denduluri A, Philpotts LL, Rondon MB, Borba CPC, Gelaye B, Byatt N. A Systematic Review of Interventions That Integrate Perinatal Mental Health Care Into Routine Maternal Care in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:859341. [PMID: 35360136 PMCID: PMC8964099 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.859341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are disproportionally affected by perinatal depression and anxiety and lack access to mental health care. Integrating perinatal mental health care into routine maternal care is recommended to address gaps in access to mental health care in such under-resourced settings. Understanding the effectiveness of interventions that integrate perinatal mental health care into routine maternal care in LMICs is critical to inform ongoing intervention development, implementation, and scale-up. This systematic review aims to assess the effectiveness of interventions that integrate perinatal mental health care into routine maternal care to improve maternal mental health and infant health outcomes in LMICs. METHOD In accordance with the PRISMA guidelines, an electronic database search was conducted seeking publications of controlled trials examining interventions that aimed to integrate perinatal mental health care into routine maternal care in LMICs. Abstracts and full text articles were independently reviewed by two authors for inclusion utilizing Covidence Review Software. Data was extracted and narrative synthesis was conducted. FINDINGS Twenty studies met eligibility criteria from the initial search results of 2,382 unique citations. There was substantial heterogeneity between the study samples, intervention designs, and outcome assessments. Less than half of the studies focused on women with active depression or anxiety. Most studies (85%) implemented single intervention designs involving psychological, psychosocial, psychoeducational, or adjuvant emotion/stress management. There were few interventions utilizing multicomponent approaches, pharmacotherapy, or referral to mental health specialists. Outcome measures and assessment timing were highly variable. Eighteen studies demonstrated significantly greater improvement on depression and/or anxiety measures in the intervention group(s) as compared to control. CONCLUSION Integrated interventions can be effective in LMICs. The findings provide a critical understanding of current interventions design gaps. This includes the lack of comprehensive intervention designs that incorporate increasing intensity of treatment for more severe illness, pharmacotherapy, mental health specialist referrals, and non-mental health professional training and supervision. The findings also provide strategies to overcome design and implementation barriers in LMICs. Study findings provide a foundation for future evidence-based adaptation, implementation, and scale-up of interventions that integrate perinatal mental health care into routine maternal care in LMICs. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION [https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_ record.php?ID=CRD42021259092], identifier [CRD42021259092].
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria C Prom
- Chester M. Pierce Division of Global Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Amrutha Denduluri
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lisa L Philpotts
- Treadwell Library, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Marta B Rondon
- Department of Psychiatry, Instituto Nacional Materno Perinatal, Lima, Peru
| | - Christina P C Borba
- Department of Psychiatry, Global and Local Center for Mental Health Disparities, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Bizu Gelaye
- Chester M. Pierce Division of Global Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Nancy Byatt
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, UMass Memorial Health Care, Worcester, MA, United States
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Reilly N, Egan N, Austin MP, Forder PM, Loxton D. Increases in use of Medicare Benefits Schedule mental health items among women who gave birth in New South Wales, 2009-2015. Aust N Z J Public Health 2021; 46:75-80. [PMID: 34897905 DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.13189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To report rates of Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) mental health item use among a sample of women who gave birth in NSW (2009-2015) and examine if the SAFE START policy increased use of these items among perinatal women. METHODS Data was drawn from women participating in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health 1973-1978 cohort, linked to data from the NSW Perinatal Data Collection and MBS. RESULTS Use of Medicare-subsidised mental health items increased 2.7-fold among perinatal women (n=1,453) between 2009 and 2015 (4.1% versus 11.0% respectively), compared to a 1.3-fold increase among non-perinatal women (n=1,800, 6.3% versus 8.4% respectively). However, the increased use of MBS mental health items among perinatal women was not observed to be impacted by the SAFE START policy, after accounting for time trends. CONCLUSION There was a substantial increase in the use of MBS mental health items among women in NSW between 2009 and 2015, with a more pronounced increase among women who had given birth compared to those who had not. Implications for public health: This study provides important information about changes in mental health service use during a time of significant investment in perinatal mental health, and demonstrates the value of longitudinal survey data linked with administrative health data to evaluate the impact of health policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Reilly
- Centre for Health Service Development, Australian Health Services Research Institute, University of Wollongong, New South Wales.,School of Psychiatry, UNSW Medicine, New South Wales
| | - Nicholas Egan
- Centre for Women's Health Research, College of Medicine, Public Health and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, New South Wales
| | - Marie-Paule Austin
- School of Psychiatry, UNSW Medicine, New South Wales.,Royal Women's Hospital, Victoria
| | - Peta M Forder
- Centre for Women's Health Research, College of Medicine, Public Health and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, New South Wales
| | - Deborah Loxton
- Centre for Women's Health Research, College of Medicine, Public Health and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, New South Wales.,Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health, University of Newcastle, New South Wales
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Reproductive concerns and fear of cancer recurrence: a qualitative study of women's experiences of the perinatal period after cancer. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2021; 21:738. [PMID: 34717568 PMCID: PMC8556905 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-021-04208-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Young female cancer survivors are at a disproportionate risk of suffering significant psychological distress following treatment, particularly fears of cancer recurrence (FCR). While previous research has established the robust relationship between FCR and family matters (e.g., family planning and motherhood), there is a paucity of information about how a history of cancer affects women’s psychological functioning throughout the perinatal period. The present investigation sought to better understand women’s experiences of pregnancy and the postpartum period following cancer treatment through a qualitative analysis. Methods Ten women participated in a semi-structured, one-on-one interview either over telephone or video conferencing (Zoom). Women were recruited from Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto, as well as through online cancer support platforms, and social media sites. Participants all had a past cancer diagnosis; no active disease; were 45-years of age or younger; currently in the perinatal period; and spoke English fluently. The study employed a grounded theory analysis by which verbatim interview data were analysed using a constant comparison method until data saturation was reached. Results The qualitative analysis yielded I’m So Happy, But Also Terrified, as the core category, indicative of the duality of emotional experience that characterized the perinatal period for these women. Additionally, four higher-order categories emerged revealing how women go through a process of grief related to potential fertility loss; conditional joy during and after pregnancy due to the lingering weight of cancer; frustration with a lack of resources regarding perinatal health after cancer; and hope as they enter into motherhood. Conclusion These results suggest that women in the perinatal period with a history of cancer may be at an increased risk for psychological distress and require additional fertility and reproductive resources both during and after cancer treatment. This research is an important step in further understanding women’s experiences of pregnancy after cancer and may help to inform future research and healthcare practices, in addition to improving perinatal care after cancer. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-021-04208-3.
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Coo S, García MI, Mira A. Examining the association between subjective childbirth experience and maternal mental health at six months postpartum. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2021:1-14. [PMID: 34672883 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2021.1990233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PROBLEM Childbirth experience can have long-lasting effects on maternal wellbeing. BACKGROUND Positive childbirth experiences may strengthen maternal self-confidence, in contrast, negativeexperiences may promote a sense of failure or distrust. AIM To examine the contribution of maternal hospital childbirth experience on mental health at 6 months postpartum in a community-based, Chilean sample. An additional aim is to examine which childbirth-related aspects contribute to the global birth experience. METHODS One hundred and forty-eight women completed self-report measures of mental health during the third trimester of pregnancy and 3 and 6 months postpartum. At 3months after childbirth, subjective childbirth experience was assessed. Logistic regression analysis examined the contribution of childbirth experience to maternal mental health. FINDINGS Negative subjective experience of childbirth contributes to maternal depression and anxiety up to 6 months after childbirth, controlling for mental health during pregnancy and at 3 months postpartum. Quality of care from health professionals made the largest, statistically significant contribution to the global perception of childbirth. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Subjective experience of childbirth is a modifiable risk factor for the development of postpartum maternal depression and anxiety. Health providers in direct contact with childbearing women may promote maternal emotional wellbeing through sensitive and respectful care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soledad Coo
- Facultad De Psicología, Universidad Del Desarrollo (UDD), Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Andrea Mira
- Facultad De Psicología, Universidad Del Desarrollo (UDD), Santiago, Chile
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Cunningham JEA, Qureshi AR, Green SM, Frey BN, Slyepchenko A. Sleep, biological rhythms and anxiety in the perinatal period: a systematic review protocol. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e046767. [PMID: 34376446 PMCID: PMC8356167 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-046767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pregnancy and new parenthood is an exciting time, but also a stressful life event that can predispose to mental health challenges. Perinatal anxiety is one such challenge, and is an important contributor to parental distress and other negative outcomes. Sleep and biological rhythms are often disrupted in the perinatal period. These disruptions have been associated with postpartum depression, and in some cases with perinatal anxiety. However, the literature concerning the association with perinatal anxiety is inconsistent and may be methodologically limited. To our knowledge, there has been no comprehensive review published characterising the relationships between sleep, biological rhythms, and perinatal anxiety and related disorders to date. In this systematic review, we will summarise the current state of the literature concerning these relationships, allowing us to highlight gaps and potentially inform clinical understanding of perinatal anxiety, sleep and biological rhythms. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Primary research articles will be eligible for inclusion if they assess perinatal anxiety or related disorders using validated criteria (self-report or diagnostic), assess sleep and biological rhythms in the perinatal period, include >4 participants and meet other inclusion/exclusion criteria. We will conduct comprehensive searches of MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase and CINAHL, with coverage spanning from database conception to search date (August 1, 2021). Key search concepts include (1) the perinatal period, (2) sleep/biological rhythms and (3) anxiety. Risk of bias will be evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Data will be narratively synthesised, with quantitative synthesis included if possible. When relevant, strength of evidence will be assessed using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation criteria, and potential publication bias will be assessed. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Research ethics approval is not required. Study results will be reported according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Results will be disseminated to relevant stakeholders as conference presentation(s) and submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER 200166.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmyn E A Cunningham
- Michael G DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aljeena R Qureshi
- Health Sciences Honours Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sheryl M Green
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Women's Health Concerns Clinic, St Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Benicio N Frey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Women's Health Concerns Clinic, St Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Mood Disorders Program, St Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anastasiya Slyepchenko
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Yılmaz M, Değirmenci F, Yılmaz DV. A psychosocial examination of feelings and thoughts about pregnancy: A qualitative study. Midwifery 2021; 103:103106. [PMID: 34352598 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2021.103106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND during pregnancy, which is a developmental period, there are risks that may cause pathological changes when physical, mental and social adaptation is not achieved. During antenatal appointments, it is possible to provide necessary care for pregnant women at the right time by screening for risks that threaten health. In addition to physical risk factors, psychosocial risk factors that can have significant effects on the health of pregnant women should also be included in antenatal appointments. A woman's inability to meet her needs or difficulties encountered in psychosocial areas, such as mental health, family relations, social life and job status during pregnancy, may result in mental and social problems as well as physical problems. Insufficient social support, job loss and family communication problems can leave pregnant women vulnerable to stress and cause many pregnancy complications, such as preterm labor. When problems in these areas cannot be detected at an early stage, they can threaten the life of the woman and the fetus. As such, knowledge of the specific feelings and thoughts of pregnant women from a psychosocial perspective will be useful in the evaluation of psychosocial risk factors. PURPOSE to determine the feelings and thoughts of pregnant women from a psychosocial perspective. METHOD this study used a qualitative descriptive approach to investigate pregnancy-related feelings and thoughts in a sample of 23 healthy pregnant women. Data were collected using a personal information form and a semi-structured interview form. The interviews, which were conducted using the semi-structured interview form and individual in-depth interviews, were recorded on a voice recorder. A thematic approach was used to analyze the data. RESULTS according to the results, the mean age of the pregnant women was 30.39 (standard deviation 4.03) years, 73.9% were university graduates and 78.3% were multiparous. Three main themes ('Pregnancy perception', 'Emotions in pregnancy' and 'Psychosocial dimension of pregnancy') and eight subthemes emerged from the data analysis. For 'Pregnancy perception', the subtheme was 'Meaning of pregnancy'. For 'Emotions in pregnancy', the subthemes were 'Emotional status (mood) in pregnancy' and 'Fear in pregnancy'. For 'Psychosocial dimension of pregnancy', the subthemes were 'Reflections of pregnancy on social life', 'Reflections of pregnancy on body image', 'Reflections of pregnancy on sexual life', 'Reflections of pregnancy on marital relationship' and 'Reflections of pregnancy on working life'. CONCLUSIONS in order to protect and maintain the health of the mother and fetus during pregnancy, it is recommended that women should be provided with the best physical and psychosocial care within the context of social and cultural structure, not only in this period but in every stage of their lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mualla Yılmaz
- Department of Mental Health Nursing, Mersin University Faculty of Nursing, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Filiz Değirmenci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Nursing, Mersin University Faculty of Nursing, Mersin 33343, Turkey.
| | - Duygu Vefikuluçay Yılmaz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Nursing, Mersin University Faculty of Nursing, Mersin 33343, Turkey
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Stojanov J, Stankovic M, Zikic O, Stankovic M, Stojanov A. The risk for nonpsychotic postpartum mood and anxiety disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic. Int J Psychiatry Med 2021; 56:228-239. [PMID: 33322982 PMCID: PMC8191144 DOI: 10.1177/0091217420981533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) appears to be the largest pandemic of our times. The aim was to recognize the risk factors for nonpsychotic postpartum mood and anxiety disorders (NPMADs) in women during the pandemic and state of emergency police lockdown in Serbia. METHODS We assessed 108 postpartum women who completed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and an additional survey constructed for this study. We also used the additional, previously mentioned survey, in 67 healthy age-matched women with children who were ≥2 years of age. The additional survey allowed us to gain insight into the impact of the pandemic as well as postpartum period on the risk of NPMADs. RESULTS In 16 (14.8%) subjects we found a score ≥10 on EPDS. Higher rates on the EPDS were noticed in elderly, single, and unemployed, women who lost their jobs due to the pandemic, or women who were dissatisfied with their household income (p < 0.05). The risk of NPMADs was linked significantly to quarantine, and social isolation, the absence of social support, as well as having emotional problems. Postpartum women, compared to non-postpartum women, were more anxious and had feelings of helplessness during social isolation. CONCLUSION Understanding the factors that increase the risk of NPMADs during the pandemic could help prevent mental disorders during a possible future pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Stojanov
- Special Hospital for Psychiatric Disorders, Gornja Toponica, Serbia
| | - Miodrag Stankovic
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Nis, Nis, Serbia,Center of Mental Health Protection, Clinical Centre Nis, Nis, Serbia
| | - Olivera Zikic
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Nis, Nis, Serbia,Center of Mental Health Protection, Clinical Centre Nis, Nis, Serbia
| | | | - Aleksandar Stojanov
- Clinic of Neurology, Clinical Center Nis, Nis, Serbia,Aleksandar Stojanov, Ozrenska 32, 18000 Nis, Serbia.
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Alhomaizi A, Alhomaizi D, Willis S, Verdeli H. Social Distancing in the Era of COVID-19: A Call for Maintaining Social Support for the Maternal Population. GLOBAL HEALTH, SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2021; 9:229-237. [PMID: 33904413 PMCID: PMC8324190 DOI: 10.9745/ghsp-d-20-00398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In the era of COVID-19, pregnant and postpartum women, an already vulnerable group, are facing unforeseen and compounding stressful events with reduced social protections. We argue that to prevent harmful consequences that may surpass the effects of the crisis itself for pregnant women and their families, it is imperative to prioritize maintaining formal and informal sources of social support for mothers in proposed infection control policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa Alhomaizi
- Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
| | | | - Sandra Willis
- Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Helen Verdeli
- Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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Cantwell R. Mental disorder in pregnancy and the early postpartum. Anaesthesia 2021; 76 Suppl 4:76-83. [PMID: 33682099 DOI: 10.1111/anae.15424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Perinatal mental illness is common, affecting up to 20% of women, but remains under-recognised and under-diagnosed. It may have adverse effects on pregnancy and neonatal outcomes, and mental disorder remains one of the leading causes of maternal death in the UK. Women with mental ill health face difficult decisions in balancing risks and benefits of treatment. Stigma related to mental disorder may lead to non-engagement with maternity care. Some disorders bring specific challenges for anaesthetists working in maternity settings and it is vital that anaesthetists have knowledge of these disorders so they may offer care which is sensitive and appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Cantwell
- NHS Scotland National Services Division, Perinatal Mental Health Network Scotland, Edinburgh, UK
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Prevalence and onset of anxiety and related disorders throughout pregnancy: A prospective study in an Australian sample. Psychiatry Res 2021; 297:113721. [PMID: 33493733 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.113721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The aims of this study were to investigate the prevalence of anxiety and related disorders (e.g., obsessive-compulsive disorder [OCD]) and major depressive disorder (MDD) at any time during pregnancy and during each pregnancy trimester and ascertain the proportions of women with an onset of these disorders during pregnancy. Several questionnaires and the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview were administered to 200 women at each pregnancy trimester. Complete data were obtained from 148 participants. The most prevalent anxiety disorder at any time during pregnancy was panic disorder (PD), followed by generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) and OCD. Unlike all the other disorders, the prevalence rates of OCD increased steadily from the first to the third trimester. Approximately one half of women with OCD and about one third of women with PD, GAD and MDD at any time during pregnancy had an onset of these disorders during pregnancy. Pregnancy may be a risk factor for an onset of OCD and to a lesser extent, for an onset of PD, GAD and MDD. Absence of remission of OCD during pregnancy despite treatment may suggest treatment resistance of OCD at this time. These findings have implications for recognition, prevention and treatment of anxiety disorders during pregnancy.
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Abstract
Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a debilitating and potentially life-threatening pregnancy disease marked by weight loss, malnutrition, and dehydration attributed to unrelenting nausea and/or vomiting; HG increases the risk of adverse outcomes for the mother and child(ren). The complexity of HG affects every aspect of a woman's life during and after pregnancy. Without methodical intervention by knowledgeable and proactive clinicians, life-threatening complications may develop. Effectively managing HG requires an understanding of both physical and psychosocial stressors, recognition of potential risks and complications, and proactive assessment and treatment strategies using innovative clinical tools.
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Mollard E, Kupzyk K, Moore T. Postpartum stress and protective factors in women who gave birth in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic. WOMEN'S HEALTH (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2021; 17:17455065211042190. [PMID: 34465268 PMCID: PMC8414615 DOI: 10.1177/17455065211042190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The COVID-19 pandemic has caused considerable stress throughout the world. Little is known about how postpartum women who gave birth during the early months of the pandemic were impacted. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the associations between potential risk, protective factors, and psychological distress among postpartum women who gave birth during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Postpartum women over the age of 18 years who gave birth in the US hospitals between March and July of 2020 and spoke English completed a survey about their experiences. Demographic and health variables were measured via self-report. Stress was measured using the Perceived Stress Scale-10. Mastery was measured with the Pearlin Mastery Scale. Resilience was measured with the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale-2. RESULTS This study included 885 women. Participants had higher stress and lower resilience relative to pre-pandemic norms. Participants had high levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. Women who had an infant admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit had more stress. Income, full-time employment, and partnered relationships were associated with lower stress. Resilience and mastery were related to lower stress, depression, and anxiety. Black, Indigenous, or People of Color women showed higher stress and lower resiliency. Single women were likely to report lower levels of mastery than partnered women. CONCLUSION Stress, depression, and anxiety were high in postpartum women in this study. Income, partnered relationships, and employment security, along with protective traits such as mastery and resilience, may reduce the impact of stress on postpartum women in a pandemic. Care models should be modified to support women during a pandemic. Health disparities exist in postpartum stress. Future interventions should focus on building resiliency and mastery and ensuring appropriate resources are available to postpartum women in a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Mollard
- College of Nursing, University of
Nebraska Medical Center, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Kevin Kupzyk
- College of Nursing, University of
Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Tiffany Moore
- College of Nursing, University of
Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
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Starcevic V, Eslick GD, Viswasam K, Berle D. Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder during Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Psychiatr Q 2020; 91:965-981. [PMID: 32445002 DOI: 10.1007/s11126-020-09769-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The main aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to calculate and compare the frequencies of obsessions and compulsions in women with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) during pregnancy (OCD-P), the postpartum period (OCD-PP) and when they are neither pregnant nor postpartum (OCD-NPP). Fourteen studies were selected after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The meta-analysis showed that aggressive obsessions were much more common in OCD-PP than in OCD-P and OCD-NPP and that washing/cleaning compulsions were less frequent in OCD-PP than in OCD-P and OCD-NPP. These differences were significant, whereas the frequencies of various obsessions and compulsions did not distinguish between OCD-P and OCD-NPP. Obsessions about accidental harm to the infant and other infant-focused obsessions, checking compulsions, self-reassurance and seeking reassurance from others were also relatively common in OCD-PP. Clinical manifestations of OCD-PP are relatively specific and differ from those of OCD-P and OCD-NPP, whereas OCD-P does not seem to have distinct clinical features. Although these findings do not necessarily suggest that OCD-PP is a distinct subtype of OCD, they have important conceptual and clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladan Starcevic
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, Nepean Clinical School, Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney, Penrith, Sydney, NSW, Australia. .,Department of Psychiatry, Nepean Hospital, PO Box 63, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia.
| | - Guy D Eslick
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, Nepean Clinical School, The Whiteley-Martin Research Centre, Discipline of Surgery, University of Sydney, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Kirupamani Viswasam
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, Nepean Clinical School, Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney, Penrith, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Department of Psychiatry, Nepean Hospital, PO Box 63, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia
| | - David Berle
- Discipline of Clinical Psychology, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Voltas N, Arija V, Hernández-Martínez C, Nappi L, Cibelli G, Basora J, Canals J. Perinatal emotional states: a comparative study between two cohorts recruited in a Mediterranean environment. Women Health 2020; 61:221-234. [PMID: 33213300 DOI: 10.1080/03630242.2020.1847749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Experiencing negative emotional states during pregnancy has been linked to adverse outcomes for mother and offspring. Our study aims were to compare the perinatal emotional states and obstetrical variables between pregnant women recruited in Spain (n = 202) and Italy (n = 103), and to investigate prenatal anxiety related factors. The study had two phases. In the 1st phase (3rd trimester of pregnancy), prenatal anxiety was assessed using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI); other prenatal and sociodemographic variables were also collected. In the 2nd phase (40 days postpartum), the STAI and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale were administered. Compared to the Spanish sample, the Italian sample presented higher STAI state and STAI factor 1 mean scores (22.5 vs. 18.6 and 10.0 vs. 7.2), shorter gestations (mean gestation weeks: 39.1 vs. 39.8), more unplanned pregnancies (31.1% vs. 16.4%), and more cesareans deliveries (42.5% vs. 16.0%). Low socioeconomic levels, younger ages, previous miscarriages and unplanned pregnancies were related to prenatal anxiety. Postpartum depression rates was 31.3% and there were no differences between countries. Our results suggested that it may be interesting in both countries to create a prenatal monitoring protocol that attaches more importance to emotional wellbeing both during pregnancy and in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Núria Voltas
- Research Center for Behavioral Assessment (CRAMC), Department of Psychology, Universitat Rovira I Virgili, Tarragona, Spain.,Nutrition and Mental Health Research Group (NUTRISAM), Universitat Rovira I Virgili, Spain
| | - Victoria Arija
- Nutrition and Mental Health Research Group (NUTRISAM), Universitat Rovira I Virgili, Spain.,Nutrition and Public Health Unit, Universitat Rovira I Virgili, Reus, Spain
| | - Carmen Hernández-Martínez
- Research Center for Behavioral Assessment (CRAMC), Department of Psychology, Universitat Rovira I Virgili, Tarragona, Spain.,Nutrition and Mental Health Research Group (NUTRISAM), Universitat Rovira I Virgili, Spain
| | - Luigi Nappi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cibelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Josep Basora
- Institut d'Investigació en Atenció Primària Jordi Gol, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Josefa Canals
- Research Center for Behavioral Assessment (CRAMC), Department of Psychology, Universitat Rovira I Virgili, Tarragona, Spain.,Nutrition and Mental Health Research Group (NUTRISAM), Universitat Rovira I Virgili, Spain
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Shayganfard M, Mahdavi F, Haghighi M, Sadeghi Bahmani D, Brand S. Health Anxiety Predicts Postponing or Cancelling Routine Medical Health Care Appointments among Women in Perinatal Stage during the Covid-19 Lockdown. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17218272. [PMID: 33182388 PMCID: PMC7664877 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17218272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
To avoid spreading the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), health authorities have forced people to reorganize their working and private lives and to avoid open and public spaces as much as possible. This has also been the case for women both during pregnancy and after delivery. Here, we investigated the associations between subjective beliefs in risk of infections and health anxiety, depression, stress, and other perinatal dimensions. To this end, we assessed 103 women (mean age: 28.57 years) during pregnancy and after delivery. They completed a series of questionnaires covering sociodemographic information, perinatal information, health anxiety, post-partum depression, and stress. Sixty-six participants (64.1%) were in the pre-partum stage, and 37 (35.9%) were post-partum. Health anxiety was unrelated to depression or stress. Knowing and being close to infected people was associated with higher health anxiety. Strict following of the safety recommendations was associated with greater health anxiety, depression, and stress. Postponing or cancelling routine medical check appointments was observed among participants with high health anxiety scores. Higher illness severity, overall health anxiety scores, and lower stress scores predicted those participants who postponed or cancelled their routine medical check appointments. Post-partum stage and a larger number of children were associated with higher stress scores, but not with depression or stress. The results are of practical and clinical importance; it appears that health anxiety, which is to say fear of getting infected with COVID-19 during pregnancy or at the post-partum stage, was associated with postponing or cancelling routine medical check appointments, but not with stress or depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehran Shayganfard
- Department of Psychiatry, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak 3848176341, Iran;
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak 3848176341, Iran
| | - Fateme Mahdavi
- Student Research Committee, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak 3848176341, Iran;
| | - Mohammad Haghighi
- Research Center for Behavioral Disorders and Substances Abuse, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan 65174, Iran;
| | - Dena Sadeghi Bahmani
- Departments of Physical Therapy, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35209, USA;
- Sleep Disorders Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah 67146, Iran
- Center for Affective-, Stress- and Sleep Disorders (ZASS), University of Basel, Psychiatric Clinics (UPK), 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Serge Brand
- Departments of Physical Therapy, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35209, USA;
- Center for Affective-, Stress- and Sleep Disorders (ZASS), University of Basel, Psychiatric Clinics (UPK), 4002 Basel, Switzerland
- Division of Sport Science and Psychosocial Health, Department of Sport, Exercise, and Health, University of Basel, 4052 Basel, Switzerland
- Substance Abuse Prevention Research Center, Health, Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah 67146, Iran
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 25529, Iran
- Correspondence: or
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Catala P, Suso-Ribera C, Marin D, Peñacoba C. Predicting postpartum post-traumatic stress and depressive symptoms in low-risk women from distal and proximal factors: a biopsychosocial prospective study using structural equation modeling. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2020; 303:1415-1423. [PMID: 33159548 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-020-05857-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Posttraumatic stress (PTSD) and depression (PPD) are common mental disorders in the postpartum that constitute a threat both to the mother and the baby. It is unclear whether both disorders share similar antecedents, which is important to plan efficient interventions. The goal of this study was to examine the contribution of set of biopsychosocial predictors on both PTSD and PPD. METHODS The study design was prospective. The study was conducted at Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, a public university hospital located in the south of Madrid (Spain). The sample was composed of 116 pregnant women with low pregnancy risk. STROBE reporting guidelines were followed. RESULTS The multivariate results show that psychopathology severity assessed during the first trimester (ß = 0.50, p < .001) and the Apgar score 5 min after delivery (ß = - 0.19, p = .030) were the two variables to significantly contribute to postpartum depressive symptoms. Conversely, only satisfaction with home care after delivery was independently associated with postpartum posttraumatic stress (ß = - 0.26, p = .016). The proposed model explained 21.8% of the variance of postpartum depressive symptoms (p = .041) and 27.1% of the variance of posttraumatic stress symptoms (p = .014). CONCLUSION Special attention should be given to shared and unique predictive factors of PDD and PTSD to develop effective prevention programs in perinatal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Catala
- Department of Psychology, Rey Juan Carlos University, Avda. de Atenas s/n, Madrid, 28922, Alcorcón, Spain
| | - Carlos Suso-Ribera
- Department of Basic and Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Jaume I University, Castellón, Spain
| | - Dolores Marin
- Department of Nursing and Stomatology. Rey Juan Carlos University, Avda. Atenas s/n, Alcorcón, Spain.,Obstetrics Department, Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Fuenlabrada, Spain
| | - Cecilia Peñacoba
- Department of Psychology, Rey Juan Carlos University, Avda. de Atenas s/n, Madrid, 28922, Alcorcón, Spain.
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Molgora S, Accordini M. Motherhood in the Time of Coronavirus: The Impact of the Pandemic Emergency on Expectant and Postpartum Women's Psychological Well-Being. Front Psychol 2020; 11:567155. [PMID: 33192847 PMCID: PMC7649390 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.567155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The birth of a child is a critical and potentially stressful experience for women, entailing several changes both at the individual and interpersonal level. This event can lead to different forms of distress, ranging in intensity and duration. Many studies highlighted medical, psychological, and social variables as risk factors potentially influencing the onset or aggravation of perinatal maternal conditions. The current pandemic emergency and the restrictive measures adopted by local governments to prevent the spread of the coronavirus infection may negatively affect mothers-to-be and new mothers potentially increasing the likelihood of anxiety, depressive or post-traumatic symptoms to develop. Moreover, the forced quarantine combined with the limited access to professional or family support may increase feelings of fatigue and isolation. The present study aims to investigate women's psychological well-being during pregnancy and in the first months after childbirth, integrating the evaluation of some traditionally studied variables with the specificities of the current situation. 575 Italian women have been administered an online self-report questionnaire assessing the presence of anxiety disorders, depressive and post-traumatic symptoms as well as the expectations toward childbirth (for mothers-to-be) or the subjective experience of childbirth (for postpartum women). Findings revealed a higher percentage of women than that reported in the literature scored above the clinical cut-off both during pregnancy and postpartum on a series of measures of psychological well-being, thus demonstrating that this period was perceived as particularly challenging and stressful and had significant impact on the women's well-being. Moreover, some socio-demographic, medical, and pandemic-related variables, especially the lack of presence and support from one's partner during labor and delivery as well as in the first days postpartum was found to predict women's mental health. These findings suggest the need for developing specific interventions targeted at women who cannot benefit from the support of their partners or family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Molgora
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Accordini
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
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Camisasca E, Di Blasio P, Milani L, Miragoli S. Postpartum depressive symptoms as a linking mechanism between maternal sleep and parenting stress: the conditional indirect effect by social support. CHILDRENS HEALTH CARE 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/02739615.2020.1824675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Camisasca
- Psychology, Università Telematica eCampus, Novedrate, Italy
- C.R.I.d.e.e., Psychology Department, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Di Blasio
- C.R.I.d.e.e., Psychology Department, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milano, Italy
| | - Luca Milani
- C.R.I.d.e.e., Psychology Department, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milano, Italy
| | - Sarah Miragoli
- C.R.I.d.e.e., Psychology Department, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milano, Italy
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Reflective parenting home visiting program: A longitudinal study on the effects upon depression, anxiety and parenting stress in first-time mothers. Heliyon 2020; 6:e04292. [PMID: 32671248 PMCID: PMC7339064 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Our study aimed to investigate the effects of a reflective parenting home visiting program in first time-mothers at risk for depression, anxiety, and parenting stress, from three to 12 months after their child's birth. Study design The sample was composed by 77 first-time mothers and their healthy babies (53% boys and 47% girls). Mothers filled out the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and the Parenting Stress Index-SF at 3, 6 and 12 months of the child. Thirty-six mothers were assigned to the experimental group and received the reflective parenting home-visiting program, the other 36 constituted the control group. Results Analyses showed a significant higher reduction in the level of depression, anxiety and parenting stress among mothers belonging to the experimental group, compared to the control group. Conclusion Our findings confirm the benefits of reflective parenting home visiting programs and underline the need to constantly evaluate the levels of depression, anxiety and parenting stress throughout the perinatal period to target effective prevention programs to foster early mother-child attachment bond.
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Osnes RS, Eberhard-Gran M, Follestad T, Kallestad H, Morken G, Roaldset JO. Mid-pregnancy insomnia is associated with concurrent and postpartum maternal anxiety and obsessive-compulsive symptoms: A prospective cohort study. J Affect Disord 2020; 266:319-326. [PMID: 32056894 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.01.140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although many perinatal women are affected by anxiety, few studies have focused on perinatal anxiety and its potential triggers. The primary aim of this study was to examine concurrent and prospective associations between mid-pregnancy insomnia and perinatal anxiety. Furthermore, we compared psychosocial and reproductive characteristics between participants with and without mid-pregnancy insomnia and explored changes in the prevalence of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms from mid-pregnancy to 8 weeks postpartum. METHODS This study was part of the Norwegian Depression and Anxiety in the Perinatal Period (DAPP) prospective, population-based, cohort study. We analyzed hospital birth records and questionnaire responses from pregnancy week 17 and postpartum week 8 (n = 530). The Bergen Insomnia Scale was used to measure insomnia and the Hopkins Symptom Checklist to measure anxiety. OCD symptoms were measured based on questions from the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview. RESULTS Mid-pregnancy insomnia was significantly associated with both concurrent and postpartum anxiety in a linear mixed model adjusted for several potential confounders. Participants with mid-pregnancy insomnia had significantly higher levels of perinatal anxiety and postpartum OCD symptoms than participants with normal mid-pregnancy sleep. OCD symptoms affected more women after delivery than before (6.4% vs. 3.8% p = 0.034). LIMITATIONS Immigrants were underrepresented in our sample. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that mid-pregnancy insomnia is a marker for concurrent anxiety and predictor of postpartum anxiety. Future research should examine whether insomnia treatment starting in mid-pregnancy reduces both perinatal insomnia and anxiety. Health providers should also be aware that postpartum women have an increased risk of developing OCD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rannveig S Osnes
- Department of Psychiatry, Ålesund Hospital, Møre & Romsdal Health Trust, Ålesund, Norway; Department of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Malin Eberhard-Gran
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Campus Ahus, University of Oslo, Lørenskog, Norway; Department of Infant Mental Health, Regional Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Eastern and Southern Norway, Oslo, Norway
| | - Turid Follestad
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Håvard Kallestad
- Department of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Østmarka Department of Psychiatry, St Olavs Hospital HF, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Gunnar Morken
- Department of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Østmarka Department of Psychiatry, St Olavs Hospital HF, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - John Olav Roaldset
- Department of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Centre for Research and Education in Forensic Psychiatry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Molgora S, Fenaroli V, Saita E. Psychological distress profiles in expectant mothers: What is the association with pregnancy-related and relational variables? J Affect Disord 2020; 262:83-89. [PMID: 31715390 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2019.10.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Research has progressively focused on antenatal psychological disease of expectant mothers, showing that anxiety and depression as well as fear of childbirth occur frequently during pregnancy. Some studies have investigated the connection between anxiety, depression, and fear of childbirth with contrasting results. Several authors have analyzed the association between psychological disease of pregnant women and numerous medical-obstetric and relational variables, still reporting inconclusive findings. The present study had three aims: 1) to investigate the psychological well-being of pregnant women based on their levels of anxiety, depression, and fear of childbirth, by identifying psychological profiles; (2) to analyze the association between the emergent psychological profiles and some medical-obstetric variables related to pregnancy; and (3) to examine the association between these profiles and couple's adjustment and social support. METHODS 410 Italian primiparous pregnant women in the 7th-8th month of pregnancy completed a questionnaire packet on site that included the following scales: Wijma Delivery Expectancy Questionnaire, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Dyadic Adjustment Scale, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. RESULTS Findings revealed the presence of three different clusters: "psychologically healthy women" (34.9%), comprised of women characterized by low levels of symptoms on all the scales; "women experiencing pregnancy- and childbirth-related anxiety" (47.3%), which groups women with an average state anxiety over the clinical value; and "psychologically distressed women" (17.8%), comprised of women who reported high levels of symptoms on all the scales, some above the clinical cut-offs. These profiles were not related to the medical-obstetric variables. On the other hand, findings revealed a significant association between marital adjustment as well as social support and cluster membership. DISCUSSION These results support the importance of early and multilevel psychological screening in order to understand the experience of pregnant women and to develop targeted and increasingly personalized interventions.
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