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Reddish A, Golds L, MacBeth A. "It is not all glowing and kale smoothies": An exploration of mental health difficulties during pregnancy through women's voices. Psychol Psychother 2024; 97:456-476. [PMID: 38661270 DOI: 10.1111/papt.12527] [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: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore the experiences of women with moderate-to-severe mental health difficulties during pregnancy, with a focus on establishing their psychological needs. Psychological distress caused by mental health difficulties during pregnancy is common and can significantly impact women and their babies. However, women's subjective experiences of difficulties with their mental health throughout pregnancy, alongside their experiences of staff, services and treatments are less well understood. DESIGN In this qualitative study, an Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach was used. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants recruited via a regional Perinatal Mental Health Service. Interviews were transcribed and analysed following the IPA methodology. RESULTS Five superordinate themes were identified which represented the lived experiences of the 11 participants on their journey through pregnancy whilst living with mental health difficulties and subsequent psychological distress: (i) Feeling the 'wrong' feelings, (ii) Societal pressures and a desire for greater acceptance, (iii) Searching for answers despite a lack of resources, (iv) What made a difference and (v) Experiences and expectations of service provision. Within these themes, 13 subordinate themes were also identified. CONCLUSIONS These themes highlight the need for greater awareness and acceptance of mental health difficulties during pregnancy as well as postnatally. While perinatal mental health services are evolving, there is still an urgent requirement for services to continue to develop to meet women's needs, as well as to develop the role of clinicians as facilitators of engagement with needs-matched care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Reddish
- NHS Grampian, Aberdeen, UK
- Clinical Psychology, School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Lisa Golds
- Clinical Psychology, School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Angus MacBeth
- NHS Grampian, Aberdeen, UK
- Clinical Psychology, School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
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Kurbatfinski S, Woo J, Ntanda H, Giesbrecht G, Letourneau N. Perinatal Predictors and Mediators of Attachment Patterns in Preschool Children: Exploration of Children's Contributions in Interactions with Mothers. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:1022. [PMID: 39201958 PMCID: PMC11352242 DOI: 10.3390/children11081022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2024] [Revised: 08/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024]
Abstract
Insecure and disorganized attachment patterns in children are linked to poor health outcomes over the lifespan. Attachment patterns may be predicted by variables that influence the quality of children's interactions with their primary caregivers/parents (usually mothers) such as prenatal and postnatal exposures and the children's own behaviours in interactions. The purposes of this exploratory study were to examine: (1) prenatal predictors of children's attachment patterns, and (2) postnatal mediators and moderators of associations between prenatal predictors and children's attachment patterns, with adjustment for relevant covariates. Mother-child dyads (n = 214) from the longitudinal Alberta Pregnancy Outcomes and Nutrition (APrON) cohort were studied using valid and reliable measures. Hayes' mediation analysis was employed to determine direct and indirect effects. Mothers' prenatal cortisol levels directly predicted disorganized (versus organized) child attachment in unadjusted models. Children's passivity (in adjusted models) and compulsivity (in unadjusted and adjusted models) in parent-child interactions mediated the pathway between mothers' prenatal cortisol levels and children's disorganized attachment patterns. Serial mediation analyses revealed that mothers' cortisol levels predicted their children's cortisol levels, which predicted children's compulsivity, and, ultimately, disorganized attachment in both unadjusted and adjusted models. No predictors were correlated with children's insecure (versus secure) attachment. This exploratory research suggests that prenatal exposure to mothers' cortisol levels and children's behavioural contributions to parent-child interaction quality should be considered in the genesis of children's attachment patterns, especially disorganization. Interventions focused on parent-child interactions could also focus on addressing children's behavioral contributions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Kurbatfinski
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; (S.K.); (G.G.)
- Owerko Centre, Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada;
| | - Jennifer Woo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Saskatchewan, Regina, SK S7N 0W8, Canada;
| | - Henry Ntanda
- Owerko Centre, Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada;
| | - Gerald Giesbrecht
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; (S.K.); (G.G.)
- Owerko Centre, Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada;
- Departments of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Nicole Letourneau
- Owerko Centre, Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada;
- Owerko Centre, Faculty of Nursing and Cumming School of Medicine, Departments of Pediatrics, Psychiatry, and Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
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3
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Sudirham, Sari TB. A synergistic approach of telehealth and community programs for perinatal mental healthcare. J Public Health (Oxf) 2024:fdae158. [PMID: 39084674 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdae158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sudirham
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Sport Science and Public Health, Universitas Negeri Manado, Unima Campus Street, Tonsaru, South Tondano District, Minahasa Regency, Tondano, North Sulawesi 95618, Indonesia
| | - Tika Bela Sari
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Sport Science and Public Health, Universitas Negeri Manado, Unima Campus Street, Tonsaru, South Tondano District, Minahasa Regency, Tondano, North Sulawesi 95618, Indonesia
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Abiiro GA, Abdul-Latif AM, Akaateba D, Braimah KRL, Alhassan M, Hadfield K, Hadfield K. A qualitative examination of factors influencing pregnancy-related anxiety in Northern Ghana. Midwifery 2024; 134:104014. [PMID: 38669757 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2024.104014] [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: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite high prevalence of anxiety among pregnant women in low- and -middle-income countries, research on context-specific conceptualisation, measurement, and predictors of pregnancy-related anxiety (PrA) is limited in these contexts. We explored local conceptualisations of factors influencing PrA in the Northern Region of Ghana. METHODS We conducted 15 focus group discussions with antenatal care seekers in the Mion District, Savelugu Municipality, and Tamale Metropolis of the Northern Region, in July and August 2021. Multistage stratified purposive sampling was used to select respondents (n = 108). The data were audio-recorded and transcribed, and then we conducted a thematic analysis of the data. RESULTS At the individual level, fear of anaemia; pre-existing health conditions; challenges with daily activities; and physical, emotional, and sexual abuses from spouses contributed to PrA. Health system failures resulting in unexpected out-of-pocket payments, negative health worker attitudes, diagnostic errors, constraints on birth preparation and birth process, and potential adverse birth outcomes were understood as driving PrA. Socio-cultural factors influencing PrA comprised beliefs and practices around baby naming/outdooring ceremonies, fear of spiritual attacks, social construction of gender roles, and contextual factors such as transportation challenges. CONCLUSION Pregnant women in the region understood, experienced, and could identify perceived predictors of PrA. To address PrA, we recommend that mental health services should be integrated into the basic package of antenatal care and rural health services should be improved. Perceived predictors of PrA identified here could be included in the design of a context-specific PrA measure for use in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilbert Abotisem Abiiro
- Department of Health Services, Policy, Planning, Management and Economics, School of Public Health, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana; Department of Population and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana.
| | - Abdul-Malik Abdul-Latif
- Institute of Interdisciplinary research and consultancy services, University for Development Studies, Tamale(,) Ghana
| | | | - Killian Ramatu Laale Braimah
- Department for Social and Behavioural Change, School of Public Health, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana
| | - Mustapha Alhassan
- Department for Social and Behavioural Change, School of Public Health, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana
| | | | - Kristin Hadfield
- Trinity Centre for Global Health, School of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Mathijssen JJP, Dirks E, van Bakel HJA. Transition to Motherhood: Adverse Childhood Experiences, and Support from Partner, Family and Friends. Matern Child Health J 2024; 28:1242-1249. [PMID: 38506959 PMCID: PMC11180152 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-024-03922-6] [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] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The complex identity changes women have to go through to become mothers makes it a challenging transitional period. Especially, mothers who have experienced childhood adversity (ACEs) may be vulnerable to poor adjustment to motherhood. However, support from a partner, family and friends can act as a buffer to cope with this challenging transitional period. Therefore, the aim was to study whether ACEs and experienced social support (partners, family, and friends) were related to the adjustment to motherhood or 'motherhood constellation' of women after the birth of their first child. METHOD Data were collected via an online questionnaire among first-time mothers from June-September 2020. Motherhood constellation was measured with four items based on the descriptions by (Stern, 1995) about the motherhood constellation, i.e. worries about Life/Growth, Emotional Engagement, Support Systems, Identity Organisation. Multiple regression analyses with pairwise deletion were conducted. RESULTS ACEs were related to all four themes of motherhood constellation, indicating that the more frequent these adverse experiences occurred in the past the more concerns, both about the child and herself, the mother had. Moreover, after controlling for ACEs and other forms of support, only support from friends was related to the use of support systems and identity organisation. Finally, statistically significant interactions were found between ACES and support from friends with life/growth and between ACES and support from family with identity organisation. These interactions indicated that contrary to the expectation the positive association between mother's ACEs and worries was stronger for mothers who experienced more support. CONCLUSION The consequences of ACEs seemed to show up in the transition to motherhood, indicating that interventions targeting first-time mothers should address the motherhood constellation that may arise from earlier adverse life experiences. Moreover, especially support from friends seemed to be associated with less worries among mothers. Social support has no buffering effect for the negative consequences of ACEs on the themes of motherhood constellation. Further research is clearly needed to get more insight into these themes and to understand the meaning of different types of social support during the transition to motherhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- J J P Mathijssen
- TRANZO Department, Academic Collaborative Centre Youth, Tilburg University, Post Office Box 90153, 5000 LE, Tilburg, The Netherlands.
| | - E Dirks
- Dutch Foundation for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Child (NSDSK), 1073 GX, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - H J A van Bakel
- TRANZO Department, Academic Collaborative Centre Youth, Tilburg University, Post Office Box 90153, 5000 LE, Tilburg, The Netherlands
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Lewkowitz AK, Allen E, Sakowicz A, Ayala NK, Whelan AR, Battle CL, Miller ES. Association between potentially traumatic birthing experience and worsening postpartum depression or anxiety trajectories among participants in perinatal collaborative care model. Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM 2024; 6:101418. [PMID: 38944114 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajogmf.2024.101418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Adam K Lewkowitz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Warren Alpert Medical School at Brown University, Providence, RI, USA; Center for Digital Health, Brown School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.
| | - Emma Allen
- Pennsylvania State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | | | - Nina K Ayala
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Warren Alpert Medical School at Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Anna R Whelan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Warren Alpert Medical School at Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Cynthia L Battle
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Warren Alpert Medical School at Brown University, Providence, RI, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Emily S Miller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Warren Alpert Medical School at Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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Lang X, Zeng T, Ni S, Jiang L, Qian P, Wu M. Exploring the first-time transition to parenthood in mainland China: a qualitative study on the experiences of fathers and mothers using the transition shock model. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1249211. [PMID: 38911952 PMCID: PMC11192196 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1249211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The transition to parenthood, which is influenced a lot by local parenting culture, is a dramatic stress for both men and women. Chinese social and cultural contexts form specific parental culture, shaping the unique experience of transition to parenthood. However, the understanding of the transition to parenthood in mainland China is limited. Additionally, few qualitative studies explored the transition to parenthood from both dyadic perspectives. Aim To explore the first-time transition to parenthood experience among mothers and fathers in mainland China during pregnancy, and compare the similarities and differences between their experiences in this transition period. Methods A descriptive qualitative study was conducted with 36 parents, including 18 primiparous women and their husbands. Data were analyzed by directed content analysis guided by the Transition Shock Model. The interview texts were first analyzed at individual levels and subsequently at the couple level to identify dyadic themes. Results Five themes and thirteen sub-themes emerged from the data analysis, including role integration, health risk, dilemma of preparation, protective isolation, and multi-dimensional expectation. Unexpectedly, the experiences and perspectives of mothers and fathers regarding the transition to parenthood were found to be similar, with the exception of the sub-theme extra-care requirement. Conclusion The findings shed light on the complex emotional journey and expectations of parents, as well as the challenges they face in terms of physical well-being, limited coping resources, and restricted social connections. Notably, fathers in China often shared the stress of the whole process during the transition period alongside mothers but often lacked accessible avenues for seeking and receiving support. These findings underscore the importance of actively involving fathers as a key support population in perinatal care, as well as the need for comprehensive support systems and tailored interventions to enhance the well-being and adaptation of parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Lang
- Department of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- School of Nursing, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tieying Zeng
- Department of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Sha Ni
- Department of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- School of Nursing, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lingjun Jiang
- Department of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- School of Nursing, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Pan Qian
- Department of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Meiliyang Wu
- Department of Nursing, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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8
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Ryan N, Leahy-Warren P, Mulcahy H, O'Mahony S, Philpott L. The impact of perinatal maternal stress on the maternal and infant gut and human milk microbiomes: A scoping review protocol. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304787. [PMID: 38837966 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this scoping review is to review the research evidence regarding the impact of perinatal maternal stress on the maternal and infant gut and human milk microbiomes. INTRODUCTION Perinatal stress which refers to psychological stress experienced by individuals during pregnancy and the postpartum period is emerging as a public health concern. Early exposure of infants to perinatal maternal stress can potentially lead to metabolic, immune, and neurobehavioral disorders that extend into adulthood. The role of the gut and human milk microbiome in the microbiome-gut-brain axis as a mechanism of stress transfer has been previously reported. A transfer of colonised aberrant microbiota from mother to infant is proposed to predispose the infant to a pro- inflammatory microbiome with dysregulated metabolic process thereby initiating early risk of chronic diseases. The interplay of perinatal maternal stress and its relationship to the maternal and infant gut and human milk microbiome requires further systematic examination in the literature. INCLUSION CRITERIA This scoping review is an exploratory mapping review which will focus on the population of mothers and infants with the exploration of the key concepts of maternal stress and its impact on the maternal and infant gut and human milk microbiome in the context of the perinatal period. It will focus on the pregnancy and the post-natal period up to 6 months with infants who are exclusively breastfed. METHODS This study will be guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute's (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews along with use of the Prisma Scr reporting guideline. A comprehensive search will be conducted using the following databases, CINAHL Complete; MEDLINE; PsycINFO, Web of Science and Scopus. A search strategy with pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria will be used to retrieve peer reviewed data published in English from 2014 to present. Screening will involve a three-step process with screening tool checklists. Results will be presented in tabular and narrative summaries, covering thematic concepts and their relationships. This protocol is registered with Open Science Framework DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/5SRMV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niamh Ryan
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, Wilton, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Helen Mulcahy
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, Wilton, Cork, Ireland
| | - Siobhain O'Mahony
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Ireland
| | - Lloyd Philpott
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Cork, Wilton, Cork, Ireland
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Saeed Q, Shafique K, Chaudhry N. Lived experiences of mothers with postnatal anxiety: a qualitative phenomenology study from Pakistan. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e078203. [PMID: 38772885 PMCID: PMC11110547 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-078203] [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: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The prevalence of postnatal anxiety is high among women during the first year of childbirth globally. Rates are higher in low and middle-income countries (LMICs), that is, 24%. Existing literature on maternal mood and its impact on child development has largely focused on postnatal depression. Postnatal anxiety has been recognised to have significant independent effects similar to those of postnatal depression, including negative effects on various aspects of maternal well-being including quality of life, parent-child interaction and child development. The evidence exploring lived experiences of postnatal anxiety is limited from LMICs. This study explored the lived experiences of anxiety in postnatal mothers in Pakistan. DESIGN A phenomenological approach was used for this qualitative study. The audio-recorded interviews were transcribed and analysed using the process of thematic analysis. SETTINGS The study was conducted in two community settings in Karachi, Pakistan; the Bin Qasim and Gadap town. PARTICIPANTS Women who were 18 years of age or older, had a live childbirth within the previous 12 months and had a score of 10 or higher on the Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7. RESULTS In-depth, one-to-one interviews were conducted with 10 participants. The qualitative data comprised of three themes. Theme one: Factors perceived to be associated with postnatal anxiety, Theme two: The perceived impact of postnatal anxiety and Theme three: Support needs. The first theme was further subdivided into two subthemes, that is, Mothers' perception of navigating domestic responsibilities and sociocultural norms of motherhood and financial constraints. CONCLUSION Despite the high prevalence of postnatal anxiety in LMICs there is not any published evidence on exploring this phenomenon through in-depth research in Pakistan. Understanding the lived experiences will help health professionals to identify women at risk of developing postnatal anxiety and to develop effective culturally appropriate interventions for women with anxiety during this postnatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qamar Saeed
- Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Nasim Chaudhry
- Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
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10
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Florio KL, Johnson TN, Williams EM, Ramaeker D, Gosch K, Otto A, Ahluwalia A, Schmidt L, Williams A, Lewis E, Chrans M, Rideout R, Spertus JA, Kendig S. Cardiovascular disease and maternal mortality: perceptions in a Midwest birthing population. Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM 2024; 6:101296. [PMID: 38336173 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajogmf.2024.101296] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Missouri has one of the highest rates of maternal mortality in the United States. To date, there are currently no studies describing birthing peoples' knowledge or perceptions of contributing causes of maternal mortality. An improved understanding of population-specific knowledge can help to define how best to design targeted interventions to reduce disease-specific causes of maternal mortality. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine the knowledge and understanding of maternal mortality in a Missouri birthing population. STUDY DESIGN A 46-question, cross-sectional survey to assess the familiarity with local maternal mortality rates, groups affected, and causality was developed by the Missouri Perinatal Quality Collaborative and the Maternal-Child Learning and Action Network and emailed to a random sample of birthing people across Missouri. Those who identified as someone with birthing potential with a Missouri zip code and who were ≥18 years of age were eligible for inclusion. Unadjusted descriptive statistics were generated and stratified by age, race, and region. RESULTS Among 2196 surveys sent, 1738 people completed the survey. Of those who responded, 78.2% were aware of the risk of pregnancy-related death with 14.7% reporting that they intimately knew someone who died. When asked if a certain group is affected disproportionately more, 66.4% responded affirmatively. Black (58.7%), uninsured (61.8%), poor (71.0%), those with substance abuse disorders (57.4%), and Native American (28.8%) birthing people were identified as groups that were perceived as suffering higher rates of maternal death. When polled on etiology, severe bleeding (56.9%) was believed to be the leading cause of death, and the second stage of labor was thought to be the period of highest risk (42.3%). Beliefs about the timing of death differed by age (P=.042) but not race (P=.81) or region (P=.191). CONCLUSION Missouri birthing people are cognizant of the social factors associated with increased maternal mortality but are unaware of the leading causes of death, namely cardiovascular disease and mental health conditions. Future Perinatal Quality Collaborative work should focus on campaigns that raise public awareness about cardiovascular disease and mental health-related birthing risks and the importance of monitoring early warning signs after delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen L Florio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Missouri, Columbia MO (Dr Florio); Healthcare Institute for Innovations in Quality, University of Missouri - Kansas City, Kansas City, MO (Drs Florio, Johnson, and Ahluwalia, and Drs Schmidt and Spertus); Division of Women's and Children's, Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City, Kansas City, MO (Drs Florio and Ramaeker); School of Medicine, University of Missouri-Kansas City, MO (Dr Florio).
| | - Traci N Johnson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Missouri - Kansas City, Kansas City, MO (Drs Johnson, Williams, and Ramaeker)
| | - Emily M Williams
- Healthcare Institute for Innovations in Quality, University of Missouri - Kansas City, Kansas City, MO (Drs Florio, Johnson, and Ahluwalia, and Drs Schmidt and Spertus); Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Missouri - Kansas City, Kansas City, MO (Drs Johnson, Williams, and Ramaeker)
| | - Devon Ramaeker
- Division of Women's and Children's, Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City, Kansas City, MO (Drs Florio and Ramaeker); Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Missouri - Kansas City, Kansas City, MO (Drs Johnson, Williams, and Ramaeker)
| | - Kensey Gosch
- Mid-America Heart Institute, Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City, Kansas City, MO (Ms Gosch and Dr Schmidt)
| | - Ashlie Otto
- Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Jefferson City, MO (Ms Otto)
| | - Amit Ahluwalia
- Healthcare Institute for Innovations in Quality, University of Missouri - Kansas City, Kansas City, MO (Drs Florio, Johnson, and Ahluwalia, and Drs Schmidt and Spertus)
| | - Laura Schmidt
- Healthcare Institute for Innovations in Quality, University of Missouri - Kansas City, Kansas City, MO (Drs Florio, Johnson, and Ahluwalia, and Drs Schmidt and Spertus); Mid-America Heart Institute, Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City, Kansas City, MO (Ms Gosch and Dr Schmidt); Mid-America Heart Institute of Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City, Kansas City, MO (Dr Spertus and Dr Schmidt)
| | - Alison Williams
- Missouri Hospital Association, Jefferson City, MO (Ms Williams and Lewis)
| | - Elizabeth Lewis
- Missouri Hospital Association, Jefferson City, MO (Ms Williams and Lewis)
| | - Mariah Chrans
- Community Health Council of Wyandotte County, Kansas City, KS (Dr Chrans)
| | | | - John A Spertus
- Healthcare Institute for Innovations in Quality, University of Missouri - Kansas City, Kansas City, MO (Drs Florio, Johnson, and Ahluwalia, and Drs Schmidt and Spertus); Mid-America Heart Institute of Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City, Kansas City, MO (Dr Spertus and Dr Schmidt)
| | - Sue Kendig
- SSM Health-Saint Louis, Saint Louis, MO (Ms Kendig)
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11
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Wang Y, Gu J, Zhang F, Xu X. Path analysis of influencing factors for maternal antenatal depression in the third trimester. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4742. [PMID: 38413698 PMCID: PMC10899182 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55355-4] [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: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Maternal antenatal depression (AD) is a nonpsychotic depressive episode during pregnancy that can harm both the pregnant woman and the fetus. This study aimed to investigate the intrinsic interrelationships between AD and its influencing factors by constructing a path model. This survey-based cross-sectional study included 1071 pregnant women who underwent pregnancy examinations in three hospitals in Nantong City, China, between February and June 2023. General information and information regarding maternal AD, pregnancy stress, prenatal anxiety, social support, marital satisfaction, sleep quality, and resilience were collected. Multiple linear regression analysis using SPSS 25.0 was employed to determine the factors influencing pregnancy depression, and Amos25.0 was used to construct a structural equation model. AD incidence was 19.4% (208/1071). The independent risk factors affecting AD in pregnant women have been integrated into the established path analysis model. The model demonstrated a good fit (χ2/DF = 1.238, comparative fit index = 0.999, goodness-of-fit index = 0.998, normed fit index = 0.996, adjusted goodness-of-fit index = 0.990, incremental fit index = 0.999, and root mean square error of approximation = 0.015). While prenatal anxiety (0.230) and hyperthyroidism (0.048) only had direct effects on AD, mental resilience was the biggest factor affecting AD, followed by pregnancy stress, marital satisfaction, prenatal anxiety, sleep quality, social support, and hyperthyroidism. Improved mental resilience, social support, sleep quality, and marital satisfaction; reduced pregnancy stress and prenatal anxiety; and effective hyperthyroidism treatment might reduce AD. This study underscored the significance of delivering actionable strategies and tangible assistance to pregnant women to reduce AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanchi Wang
- Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University (The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong), Nantong, Jiangsu, China
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Nursing, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jian Gu
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China.
- Medical School (School of Nursing), Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Xujuan Xu
- Department of Nursing, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China.
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Deif R. Case report: Psychotherapy for enhancing psychological adjustment to dysphoric milk ejection reflex. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1333572. [PMID: 38356909 PMCID: PMC10864538 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1333572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Given its endless benefits, breastfeeding is widely acknowledged as the optimal choice for both maternal and infant health. Nevertheless, breastfeeding mothers often encounter various challenges that may hinder their ability to fully embrace this experience. This report delves into a compelling case of Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER), a largely underexamined mental health issue among lactating mothers. D-MER is characterized by intense aversion right before milk let down, which can significantly impede a mother's willingness to breastfeed. The primary aim of this case report is to provide a comprehensive psychological understanding of D-MER, emphasizing aspects of attachment, the transition into motherhood, and the sociocultural sexualization of the female body. We also offer an overview of the psychotherapeutic journey, highlighting key insights and progress achieved over a span of six months. Therapy adopted an integrative approach combining narrative techniques and skills training such as mindfulness to facilitate a comprehensive therapeutic experience. This case underscores the psychological dimensions of the breastfeeding experience, complementing the well-established biochemical and physiological aspects of D-MER. It also emphasizes the need for further research into the psychological facets of both successful and less successful breastfeeding experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Deif
- Institute of Global Health and Human Ecology, School of Sciences and Engineering, American University in Cairo, New Cairo, Egypt
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13
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Kułak-Bejda A, Shpakou A, Khvoryk N, Hutsikava L, Aydin Avci I, Eren DC, Kourkouta L, Tsaloglidou A, Koukourikos K, Waszkiewicz N. Impact of pregnancy/childbirth on dispositional optimism in the context of risk of depression, mental health status and satisfaction with life. Front Psychiatry 2024; 14:1271033. [PMID: 38260803 PMCID: PMC10801721 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1271033] [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: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Life optimism is an inseparable element accompanying every human being. It takes different values depending on the life situation. The present study aimed to measure the level of dispositional optimism in postpartum and pregnant women, compared to women who are not pregnant and have never given birth in Poland, Greece, Turkey, Belarus, and Russia, depending on the level of life satisfaction, risk of depression and mental health. Materials and methods A case-control study was carried out among 2017 women, including 584 pregnant women, 528 postpartum women, and 906 women who had never been pregnant and had never given birth (control group) from Poland, Greece, Turkey, Belarus, and Russia.The study used the LOT-R Life Orientation Test, the Beck Depression Scale (BDI), the Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS), the GHQ- 28, and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) - only in the postpartum group. Results Women from the control group showed an average level of optimism, obtaining an average of 16 points in Belarus, 13.4 points in Poland, 13.3 points in Greece, 13.5 points in Turkey, and Russia - 16.3 points. Pregnant women from Belarus had a high level of optimism (17 points), and in other countries, an average level of optimism was in Poland - 14.5 points, Greece - 14.0 points, Turkey - 14.3 points, and Russia - 16.5 points. Women after childbirth had a high level of optimism in Belarus (17.4 points) and Russia (17.2 points), and in other countries had the average level of optimism. In these countries, the lowest level of optimism was found in non-pregnant women. No significant correlation between age and life optimism was found in any group. In Poland, life optimism increased with age in women who had never been pregnant, and in Turkey, in women who were pregnant and after childbirth. Conclusion Pregnant women from Belarus had a higher level of optimism than other countries. Non-pregnant women had an average level of optimism. Future studies should include larger groups of women and consider other factors that may additionally contribute to dispositional optimism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrei Shpakou
- Department of Integrated Medical Care, Medical University of Białystok, Białystok, Poland
| | - Natallia Khvoryk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus
| | - Liudmila Hutsikava
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus
| | - Ilknur Aydin Avci
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Türkiye
| | - Dilek Celik Eren
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Türkiye
| | - Lambrini Kourkouta
- Department of Nursing, International Hellenic University, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Areti Tsaloglidou
- Department of Nursing, International Hellenic University, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Paz-Pascual C, Artieta-Pinedo I, Bully P, Garcia-Alvarez A, Espinosa M. Anxiety and depression in pregnancy: associated variables during the COVID-19 pandemic period. ENFERMERIA CLINICA (ENGLISH EDITION) 2024; 34:23-33. [PMID: 38224816 DOI: 10.1016/j.enfcle.2024.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the association between age, parity, nationality, educational level, employment and partner support with depression and anxiety during pregnancy. To determine the impact of the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic on the anxiety and depression levels of the participants. METHOD Cross-sectional descriptive correlational study carried out in the Osakidetza/Basque Health Service, Primary Care, Bizkaia (Spain). A total of 295 pregnant women between 8 and 41 weeks participated. The association between age, parity, nationality, educational level, employment, partner support and COVID-19 incidence rates during the study period and depression (measured with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale) and anxiety (measured with the State-Anxiety Inventory/STAI-S subscale) scores during pregnancy was measured. A logistic regression model was constructed and odds ratios and their 95% confidence intervals were estimated. RESULTS The mean score was 18.75 points for anxiety (SD=8.69) and 6.45 points for depression (SD=4.32). Women expecting their second or later child had higher scores for depression (OR 2.51[95%IC: 1.26-5.01)) and anxiety (OR 1.98 [95%IC: 1.01-3.89]). Having completed university studies was associated with lower scores in depression (OR 0.28 [95%IC: 0.11-0.77]) and in anxiety (OR 0,2 [95%IC: 0.08-0.54]). A good relationship with the partner was associated with lower levels of anxiety (OR 0.45 [95%IC: 0.24-0.81]). The mean anxiety and depression scores are related to the incidence of COVID-19 cases; the anxiety score was significantly higher in periods of higher incidence. CONCLUSIONS Greater emotional care for pregnant women with low educational level, multiparous and with weak support from their partner, would reduce anxiety and depression in pregnancy. Health emergency situations affect mental health during gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Paz-Pascual
- Osakidetza-Servicio Vasco de Salud, Biocruces-Bizkaia Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain; Osakidetza-Servicio Vasco de Salud, Matrona Atención Primaria, Centro de Salud Markonzaga, Sestao, OSI Barakaldo-Sestao, Bizkaia, Spain; Unidad Docente de Matronas del País Vasco, Bizkaia, Spain.
| | - Isabel Artieta-Pinedo
- Osakidetza-Servicio Vasco de Salud, Biocruces-Bizkaia Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain; Osakidetza-Servicio Vasco de Salud, Matrona Atención Primaria, Centro de Salud Zuazo, Barakaldo, OSI Barakaldo-Sestao, Bizkaia, Spain; Escuela de Enfermería, Universidad del País Vasco, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Paola Bully
- Consultora Metodológica y Estadística, Sopuerta, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Arturo Garcia-Alvarez
- Osakidetza-Servicio Vasco de Salud, Biocruces-Bizkaia Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Maite Espinosa
- Osakidetza-Servicio Vasco de Salud, Biocruces-Bizkaia Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain
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15
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Wardoyo H, Moeloek ND, Basrowi RW, Ekowati M, Samah K, Mustopo WI, Nurdjasmi E, Widyahening IS, Medise BE, Darus F, Sundjaya T, Pelangi B. Mental Health Awareness and Promotion during the First 1000 Days of Life: An Expert Consensus. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 12:44. [PMID: 38200950 PMCID: PMC10778627 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12010044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The first 1000 days of life constitute a critical phase that will determine the optimum growth and development of a child. An important factor in this phase of life is the perinatal mental health of mothers and children. Mental health awareness is an important public health issue with significant impacts on mothers, spouses, and families, as well as the long-term emotional and cognitive development of children as well. However, the awareness and promotion of mental health within the realms of reproductive health, maternal health, and infant health, i.e., the first 1000 days of life, do not receive high prioritization in Indonesia. Nonetheless, Indonesia, with its existing primary healthcare system, has the potential to raise awareness of and promote the importance of perinatal mental health for its citizens. This experts' consensus proposes several strategies to maximize the usefulness of primary healthcare facilities in Indonesia, including Community Health Centers and Integrated Healthcare Posts, to support perinatal mental health awareness and promotion during the first 1000 days of life. The success of this program, in return, will improve the health status of women and children in Indonesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasto Wardoyo
- National Family Planning Coordinating Agency (BKKBN), Jakarta 13650, Indonesia;
| | | | - Ray Wagiu Basrowi
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10320, Indonesia;
- Health Collaborative Center (HCC), Jakarta 10320, Indonesia;
- Danone Specialized Nutrition, Jakarta 12940, Indonesia;
| | - Maria Ekowati
- Indonesian Women Empowerment Group (Wanita Indonesia Keren), Jakarta 12980, Indonesia; (M.E.); (K.S.)
| | - Kristin Samah
- Indonesian Women Empowerment Group (Wanita Indonesia Keren), Jakarta 12980, Indonesia; (M.E.); (K.S.)
| | - Widura Imam Mustopo
- Indonesian Association of Psychologist Special Capital Region of Jakarta (HIMPSI Jaya), Jakarta 12410, Indonesia;
| | - Emi Nurdjasmi
- Indonesian Midwive Association (IBI), Jakarta 100560, Indonesia;
| | - Indah Suci Widyahening
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10320, Indonesia;
| | - Bernie Endyarni Medise
- Child Health Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia;
| | - Febriansyah Darus
- Obstetric Gynaecology Department, Indonesian President Hospital RSPAD Gatot Subroto, Jakarta 10410, Indonesia;
| | | | - Bunga Pelangi
- Health Collaborative Center (HCC), Jakarta 10320, Indonesia;
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16
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Worrall S, Harris EJ, Silverio SA, Fallon V. The identification and measurement of postpartum anxiety in England: A Delphi survey. J Psychiatr Res 2023; 168:381-391. [PMID: 37976556 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.10.041] [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: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Postpartum anxiety has negative consequences for both mother and infant, so effective identification and measurement is vital to enable intervention. Despite NICE recommendations to prioritise the measurement of postpartum anxiety in mothers, current clinical measurement in England remains both fragmented and flawed. The Postpartum Specific Anxiety Scale [PSAS] offers an alternative, as it measures maternal-focused anxieties which can enable specifically targeted interventions. However, it is only currently used as a research tool and may require modification for clinical use. To inform modification of the PSAS, nineteen stakeholders from a variety of organisations participated in a two-round Delphi consensus survey to measure its clinical relevance and potential for effective identification of clinical anxiety. Descriptive analyses revealed all subscales of the PSAS scored highly across all domains, excluding Practical Infant Care Anxieties. Analyses also indicated good consensus between stakeholders across specific items, suggesting that the some items on the PSAS are relevant and effective at identifying clinical postpartum anxiety. Participants also expressed a need for a shorter version of the PSAS for clinical use, and that additional items may need including. Future research must now adapt the existing PSAS based on the results of this study and pilot the adapted measure in a clinical population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Semra Worrall
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Elizabeth J Harris
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Sergio A Silverio
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, King's College London, UK.
| | - Victoria Fallon
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, UK
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17
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Wang Y, Gu J, Zhang F, Xu X. The effect of perceived social support on postpartum stress: the mediating roles of marital satisfaction and maternal postnatal attachment. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:482. [PMID: 37697292 PMCID: PMC10496285 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02593-9] [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: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple factors may be responsible for the development of postpartum stress, including perceived social support, marital satisfaction, and maternal postnatal attachment. However, the underlying mediation mechanisms remain unclear. This study examined the complex relationships between perceived social support and postpartum stress among Chinese women. METHODS A convenience sample comprising 406 postpartum women was recruited from six hospitals in Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China. The participants completed general survey questionnaires and were evaluated using the Maternal Postpartum Stress Scale, the Perceived Social Support Scale, the Maternal Postnatal Attachment Scale, and the Marital Satisfaction Scale. Furthermore, we evaluated the relationship between postpartum stress and the various influencing factors by performing a multiple linear regression analysis. The potential mediating roles of marital satisfaction and maternal and infant attachment in the association between perceived social support and postpartum stress were explored by performing a mediation analysis. RESULTS According to the multivariate regression analysis, perceived social support, marital satisfaction, and maternal postnatal attachment contributed to postpartum stress levels (P < 0.05). The mediation analysis revealed that marital satisfaction and maternal postnatal attachment played parallel mediating roles in the association between perceived social support and postpartum stress, and the mediating effect of marital satisfaction was - 0.1125 (95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.1784 to -0.0520), accounting for 33.20% of the total effect, and the mediating effect of maternal postnatal attachment was - 0.0847 (95% CI: -0.1304 to -0.0438), accounting for 25.00% of the total effect. CONCLUSION Our study revealed that perceived social support could influence postpartum stress not only through direct effect (41.80% of the total effect), but also through the indirect effect (mediation effect) of marital satisfaction and maternal postnatal attachment (58.20% of the total effect), suggesting that improving postpartum women's social support, enhancing maternal and infant attachment, and improving their marital satisfaction could help lower postpartum stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanchi Wang
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Nursing, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
- Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University (The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong), Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jian Gu
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Xujuan Xu
- Department of Nursing, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China.
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18
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Dahl AA, Yada FN, Butts SJ, Tolley A, Hirsch S, Lalgondar P, Wilson KS, Shade L. Contextualizing the experiences of Black pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic: 'It's been a lonely ride'. Reprod Health 2023; 20:124. [PMID: 37626357 PMCID: PMC10463995 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-023-01670-4] [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: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic significantly changed the prenatal care experience, specifically regarding medical appointments and social opportunities. It is critical to capture this change through the narratives of pregnant people, particularly those of marginalized populations, whose voices may often be underrepresented in the literature. This mixed-methods paper summarizes the experiences of 40 pregnant Black/African American (AA) women during the COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional, online survey was administered between 2020 and 2021 to assess prenatal health and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients' pregnancy experience. Coping behaviors during the pandemic were self-reported using the COPE-IS. Univariate analyses were conducted. An additional analysis of participants (n = 4) was explored through a week-long qualitative exercise using a photo documentation procedure. Photo-Elicitation Interviews (PEI) were conducted to capture and center their pandemic pregnancy experiences. Sources of stress during the pandemic varied, with the most common being financial concerns (n = 19, 47.5%). Over half of the sample (n = 18, 54.5%) self-reported increases in their positive coping behaviors during the pandemic, such as communicating with friends and family, talking to healthcare providers, listening to music, and engaging in spiritual practices-such as prayer. The four PEI study participants reflected on the impacts of social distancing on their prenatal experience and mentioned hospital and provider-related weariness due to their race. The findings of this study suggest that during the COVID-19 pandemic, Black/AA pregnant women in Charlotte, NC used social support, mindfulness practices, self-advocacy, and health literacy to navigate challenges present during their prenatal health experience. This paper highlights the personal, social, and structural experiences of pregnant women during a public health crisis so that responsive and effective programs or policies can be planned in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia A Dahl
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28223, USA.
| | - Farida N Yada
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28223, USA
| | - Shanika Jerger Butts
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28223, USA
| | - Annalise Tolley
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28223, USA
| | - Sophie Hirsch
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28223, USA
| | - Priyanka Lalgondar
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28223, USA
| | - Kala S Wilson
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28223, USA
| | - Lindsay Shade
- Department of Family Medicine, Atrium Health, 2001 Vail Avenue, Suite 400-B Mercy Medical Plaza, Charlotte, NC, 28207, USA
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19
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Ferguson M, Shapiro GD, McDonald SD. Understanding and preferences regarding risk communication during pregnancy: a survey to facilitate provider communication with patients. Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM 2023; 5:100929. [PMID: 36931434 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajogmf.2023.100929] [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: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clear communication of medical risk helps to ensure proper patient understanding of healthcare options and supports informed decision-making. Communication involving visual and written risk typically conveys risk more effectively than conversations alone between a patient and a clinician. However, perception of risk is context-dependent, and the efficacy of and preferences for commonly-used risk communication formats are not well-understood during pregnancy, which is a time of complex decision-making. We sought to address this knowledge gap. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess pregnant and recently pregnant people's understanding and preferences for different risk communication formats. STUDY DESIGN We conducted an open online REDCap survey of pregnant and recently pregnant people over a 1-month period in 2022. Study participants were aged 16 to 49 years, pregnant or recently pregnant, and able to provide informed consent in English. Data collected included demographics, measurements of accuracy of understanding including both gist accuracy (general understanding) and verbatim accuracy (numeric quantification), and preferences for risk communication formats including icon arrays, pie charts, bar graphs, and text. Descriptive analyses of the proportion of correctly answered questions were calculated. RESULTS A total of 247 participants completed ≥1 item on accuracy and risk communication preferences, and 230 provided complete responses. Gist (general) understanding was accurate between 74% and 89% of the time for most graphical formats. Verbatim understanding (exact numeric quantification) was approximately 90% accurate for most formats. Respondents preferred that figures be used over circles to display risk in icon arrays, both for themselves and for infants, although figures generated more worry. However, participants substantially preferred pie charts over bar graphs (59%-70% vs 19%-25%). Respondents preferred risk to be expressed with a lower denominator of 200 rather than a higher denominator of 1000 (79% vs 13%, although the lower denominator generated more worry), and in terms of chance of survival rather than chance of death (50% vs 33%). CONCLUSION In a survey of pregnant and recently pregnant people, most respondents preferred pie charts over other graph formats, and lower rather than higher denominators in text. Presentations of survival rather than death estimates were also preferred. Approximately 75% to 90% of respondents accurately understood risk presented with visual and written communication. For the remaining participants, for whom accurate understanding was challenging, new strategies need to be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margot Ferguson
- Faculty of Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada (Ms Ferguson)
| | - Gabriel D Shapiro
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada (Dr Shapiro)
| | - Sarah D McDonald
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Radiology, and Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada (Dr McDonald).
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20
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Kowalska J. The Level of Stress and Anxiety in Pregnant Women Depending on Social Support and Physical Activity. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12093143. [PMID: 37176585 PMCID: PMC10179597 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12093143] [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: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Social support and physical activity are mentioned among the numerous factors affecting the emotional state of pregnant women. Therefore, the aim of the study was to assess the level of perceived stress and anxiety in pregnant women depending on social support and their physical activity both before and during pregnancy and find the factors that affected the level of perceived stress. METHODS A total of 373 pregnant women were qualified for the study. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and a self-administered questionnaire were used. RESULTS In the study group, a high level of stress and anxiety were noted. A comparative analysis showed that physically active women before pregnancy, women attending childbirth classes and remaining in a relationship, were characterized by a lower level of stress and anxiety compared to physically inactive women, women who did not participate in childbirth classes and were single. A multiple linear regression analysis showed that participation in childbirth classes, physical activity before pregnancy, the level of anxiety as a trait, and women's age had the most significant impact on the stress level of surveyed women. CONCLUSIONS Further research among pregnant women and women in the postpartum period is needed to confirm the benefits of physical activity and to identify as many factors as possible that may affect the emotional state of pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Kowalska
- Faculty of of Physiotherapy, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, 51-612 Wroclaw, Poland
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21
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Frawley T, McGuinness D. Dysphoric milk ejection reflex (D-MER) and its implications for mental health nursing. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2023; 32:620-626. [PMID: 36705232 DOI: 10.1111/inm.13115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Dysphoric milk ejection reflect (D-MER) is a dysphoria which women may experience within seconds of commencing breastfeeding. It is only recently gaining recognition in the academic literature and may have important implications for breastfeeding continuation, differential diagnosis and perinatal mental health. This perspective piece introduces the topic, sets out the physiological processes underpinning the experience and outlines why increased awareness of D-MER is important for the profession of mental health nursing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Frawley
- Mental Health Nursing, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Denise McGuinness
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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22
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Ribeiro CSZ, Gondim EC, Scorzafave LGDS, Gomes-Sponholz FA, Santos DDD, Mello DFD. Parental stress during pregnancy and maternity. Rev Esc Enferm USP 2023; 57:e20220351. [PMID: 37011287 PMCID: PMC10081624 DOI: 10.1590/1980-220x-reeusp-2022-0351en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify factors related to parental stress of women during pregnancy and the child's first month of life. METHOD Prospective longitudinal study in two stages. Analysis of home interviews with 121 participants, Gestational Stress Scale, and Parental Stress Scale. Fisher's exact test, Spearman's correlation, and linear and logistic multivariate regression were applied, with p < 0.05. RESULTS Most of the participants were between 18 and 35 years old, had 11 to 13 years of education, had no paid work, had a partner, usually the child's father, planned pregnancy, were multiparous, and underwent prenatal care. During pregnancy, 67.8% had stress. In the first month after the child's birth, most had low parental stress (52.1%). High parental stress correlated with some gestational stress. Planning pregnancy decreased parental stress. CONCLUSION Gestational and parental stress in the child's first month of life were correlated and pregnancy planning was a factor that reduced stress levels. Timely actions to reduce parental stress are essential for parenting and the child's overall health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carine Sanches Zani Ribeiro
- Universidade São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Programa de Pós-Graduação Enfermagem em Saúde Pública, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Ellen Cristina Gondim
- Universidade São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Programa de Pós-Graduação Enfermagem em Saúde Pública, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Luiz Guilherme Dacar Silva Scorzafave
- Universidade São Paulo, Faculdade de Economia, Aministração e Contabilidade de Ribeirão Preto, Laboratório de Estudos e Pesquisas em Economia Social, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Flávia Azevedo Gomes-Sponholz
- Universidade São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Programa de Pós-Graduação Enfermagem em Saúde Pública, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel Domingues Dos Santos
- Universidade São Paulo, Faculdade de Economia, Aministração e Contabilidade de Ribeirão Preto, Laboratório de Estudos e Pesquisas em Economia Social, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Débora Falleiros de Mello
- Universidade São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Programa de Pós-Graduação Enfermagem em Saúde Pública, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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Zhou X, Rao L, Yang D, Wang T, Li H, Liu Z. Effects of maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index and gestational weight gain on antenatal mental disorders in China: a prospective study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:188. [PMID: 36934260 PMCID: PMC10024407 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-05502-y] [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: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maternal obesity is the most common medical condition among women of reproductive age worldwide. The pre-pregnancy body mass index and gestational weight gain have been suggested to be associated with maternal mental disorders. This study aimed to investigate the effects of the pre-pregnancy body mass index and gestational weight gain on antenatal depression, stress, and anxiety. METHODS In total, 4,890 pregnant women were enrolled in the present study, which is based on an ongoing prospective cohort study. We used self-reported pre-pregnancy weights and the last weights measured prior to delivery (using professional instruments) to calculate the pre-pregnancy body mass index and gestational weight gain. The questionnaires used included the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), and 10-item version of the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). We used Pearson product-moment correlation and multivariable logistic regression models to examine the impact of the pre-pregnancy body mass index and gestational weight gain on different maternal mental disorders. RESULTS After adjusting for conception, annual household income, occupation, education, smoking status, and drinking status, excessive gestational weight gain during pregnancy was associated with a greater chance of anxiety symptoms in the entire sample (adjusted model: odds ratio = 1.479, 95% confidence interval = 1.128, 1.938) and especially in women with a normal body mass index (adjusted model: odds ratio = 1.668, 95% confidence interval = 1.209, 2.302). However, the relationship between the maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index and mental health was not significant. CONCLUSION Pregnant women with a normal pre-pregnancy body mass index had a greater chance of experiencing anxiety symptoms before delivery if gestational weight gain was excessive; however, its effects on depression or stress symptoms were not observed. The maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index may not be independently associated with maternal mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhou
- School of Medicine, The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 910 Hengshan Road, Xuhui District, 200030, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, 200030, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Birth Defects and Rare Diseases, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200030, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin Rao
- School of Medicine, The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 910 Hengshan Road, Xuhui District, 200030, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, 200030, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Birth Defects and Rare Diseases, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200030, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongjian Yang
- School of Medicine, The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 910 Hengshan Road, Xuhui District, 200030, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, 200030, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Birth Defects and Rare Diseases, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200030, Shanghai, China
| | - Tong Wang
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200030, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Li
- School of Medicine, The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 910 Hengshan Road, Xuhui District, 200030, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, 200030, Shanghai, China.
- Institute of Birth Defects and Rare Diseases, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200030, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zhiwei Liu
- School of Medicine, The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 910 Hengshan Road, Xuhui District, 200030, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, 200030, Shanghai, China.
- Institute of Birth Defects and Rare Diseases, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200030, Shanghai, China.
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Comparing prenatal and postpartum stress among women with previous adverse pregnancy outcomes and normal obstetric histories: A longitudinal cohort study. SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTHCARE 2023; 35:100820. [PMID: 36774741 DOI: 10.1016/j.srhc.2023.100820] [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: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to compare subjectively and objectively measured stress during pregnancy and the three months postpartum in women with previous adverse pregnancy outcomes and women with normal obstetric histories. METHODS We recruited two cohorts in southwestern Finland for this longitudinal study: (1) pregnant women (n = 32) with histories of preterm births or late miscarriages January-December 2019 and (2) pregnant women (n = 30) with histories of full-term births October 2019-March 2020. We continuously measured heart rate variability (HRV) using a smartwatch from 12 to 15 weeks of pregnancy until three months postpartum, and subjective stress was assessed with a smartphone application. RESULTS We recruited the women in both cohorts at a median of 14.2 weeks of pregnancy. The women with previous adverse pregnancy outcomes delivered earlier and more often through Caesarean section compared with the women with normal obstetric histories. We found differences in subjective stress between the cohorts in pregnancy weeks 29 and 34. The cohort of women with previous adverse pregnancy outcomes had a higher root mean square of successive differences between normal heartbeats (RMSSD), a well-known HRV parameter, compared with the other cohort in pregnancy weeks 26 (64.9 vs 55.0, p = 0.04) and 32 (63.0 vs 52.3, p = 0.04). Subjective stress did not correlate with HRV parameters. CONCLUSIONS Women with previous adverse pregnancy outcomes do not suffer from stress in subsequent pregnancies more than women with normal obstetric histories. Healthcare professionals need to be aware that interindividual variation in stress during pregnancy is considerable.
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Pope J, Redsell S, Houghton C, Matvienko-Sikar K. Healthcare professionals' experiences and perceptions of providing support for mental health during the period from pregnancy to two years postpartum. Midwifery 2023; 118:103581. [PMID: 36608486 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2022.103581] [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: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mental health issues in the perinatal period are common, and can have negative consequences for maternal and child health. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) who provide women with perinatal care are well-placed to detect mental health issues and provide support. This study therefore examines HCPs' experiences and perceptions of providing mental health support during the perinatal period, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN An exploratory realist qualitative study was conducted. SETTING Republic of Ireland PARTICIPANTS: A purposive sampling strategy was employed to recruit HCPs (e.g., general practitioners, midwives, public health nurses, practice nurses, doulas, and breastfeeding counsellors), via professional bodies in Ireland. An invitation to participate was also circulated via Twitter. A total of 18 HCPs participated in semi-structured interviews conducted between 18/8/2020 and 24/5/2021. MEASUREMENTS AND FINDINGS Semi-structured interviews were conducted according to a topic guide designed by a multidisciplinary team. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Four themes were developed: 'Supporting women in healthcare settings,' 'Skills and capacity to provide adequate care,' 'Structural barriers to care provision,' and 'The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on stress support.' KEY CONCLUSIONS HCPs reported providing emotional support and advocacy, but highlighted challenges, including limited capacity to address women's concerns, clinical culture and hierarchy, insufficient organisational investment, and social inequities in support access. Some HCPs felt these barriers could lead to additional psychological harm. HCPs also reported that the pandemic had introduced novel stressors and changed the nature of the mental health support they provided. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Interventions incorporating education and physical resources for HCPs, increased investment in specialist perinatal mental health services, increased investment in holistic supports, and changes to address cultural challenges in care environments, may facilitate - or enhance - support for women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Pope
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Western Road, Mardyke, Cork, Ireland; School of Nursing and Midwifery, Aras Moyola, University of Galway, Upper Newcastle, Gaillimh, Ireland.
| | - Sarah Redsell
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine Houghton
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Aras Moyola, University of Galway, Upper Newcastle, Gaillimh, Ireland
| | - Karen Matvienko-Sikar
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Western Road, Mardyke, Cork, Ireland
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Banasova R, Noskova E, Vodickova R, Hasto J, Sebela A. Emotional difficulties, coping strategies, and help-seeking patterns among Czech perinatal women. Midwifery 2023; 116:103526. [PMID: 36323074 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2022.103526] [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: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand both, women´s perception of emotional difficulties in perinatal period and their related coping strategies. Further, we mapped and analysed help-seeking patterns utilized by these women to overcome their emotional difficulties. This study serve as an important piece of information for women-centred innovations in perinatal mental health care in Czechia, and more broadly in the region of Central and Eastern Europe. DESIGN A qualitative study with an exploratory and descriptive approach using thematic analysis. SETTING Online survey consisting of open-ended questions mapping women´s perception of emotional difficulties in perinatal period and their related coping strategies and help-seeking patterns. PARTICIPANTS Two hundred women self-reporting emotional difficulties in perinatal period, from whom 108 (54 %) stated that they had sought professional help with their emotional difficulties. FINDINGS Two themes were identified in the analysis of women´s perception of emotional difficulties including Experience of symptoms of mental disorders, and Mother-child relationship. Three themes were identified in the analysis of women´s coping with these difficulties (Personal resources, External resources, and No coping strategy used). Four themes were identified in the analysis of help seeking patterns utilized by study participants (Mental health specialists, Physicians of the first line of contact, Midwifes, and Peer consultants). KEY CONCLUSIONS Emotional difficulties of perinatal women stemmed in both, general symptoms of mental disorders and specific concerns connected to mother-child relationship. Therefore, the perinatal mental health services should cover both topics, preferably by a multidisciplinary team. Women search information about perinatal mental health, so thus, easy to reach valid resources are needed. Finally, Czech perinatal women experiencing emotional difficulties utilize various help-seeking patterns. Some of them naturalistically utilize integrated stepped care even when it is not systematically established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Banasova
- National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic; Olomouc University Social Health Institute, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Eliska Noskova
- National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic; Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Renata Vodickova
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Jozef Hasto
- Olomouc University Social Health Institute, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic; Psychiatric Clinic, Pro Mente Sana, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Antonin Sebela
- National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic; Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
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Ribeiro CSZ, Gondim EC, Scorzafave LGDS, Gomes-Sponholz FA, Santos DDD, Mello DFD. Estresse parental na gestação e maternidade. Rev Esc Enferm USP 2023. [DOI: 10.1590/1980-220x-reeusp-2022-0351pt] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
RESUMO Objetivo: Identificar fatores relacionados ao estresse parental de mulheres na gestação e primeiro mês de vida da criança. Método: Estudo longitudinal prospectivo em duas etapas. Análise de entrevistas em domicílio com 121 participantes, Escala de Estresse Gestacional e de Estresse Parental. Aplicados teste exato de Fisher, correlação de Spearman e regressão multivariada linear e logística, com p < 0,05. Resultados: A maior parcela das participantes tinha entre 18 e 35 anos, 11 a 13 anos de estudo, sem trabalho remunerado, com companheiro, geralmente o pai da criança, gestação planejada, multípara e realização do pré-natal. Na gestação, 67,8% apresentaram estresse. No primeiro mês após o nascimento do filho, a maioria teve baixo estresse parental (52,1%). Estresse parental alto apresentou correlação com algum estresse gestacional. Planejar a gestação diminuiu o estresse parental. Conclusão: Estresse gestacional e parental no primeiro mês de vida da criança foram correlacionados e o planejamento da gestação constituiu fator de diminuição dos níveis de estresse. Ações oportunas para reduzir o estresse parental são fundamentais para a parentalidade e saúde integral da criança.
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Callister LC. Global Peripartum Mental Health: The Silent Burden for Women in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. MCN Am J Matern Child Nurs 2022; 47:362. [PMID: 36227079 DOI: 10.1097/nmc.0000000000000864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lynn Clark Callister
- Dr. Lynn Clark Callister is a Professor Emerita, College of Nursing, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT. Dr. Callister can be reached via email at
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Redshaw M, Wynter K. Maternal mental health: Women’s voices and data from across the globe. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:796. [PMID: 36307777 PMCID: PMC9614766 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-05064-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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Choi E, Kazzi B, Varma B, Ortengren AR, Minhas AS, Vaught AJ, Bennett WL, Lewey J, Michos ED. The Fourth Trimester: a Time for Enhancing Transitions in Cardiovascular Care. CURRENT CARDIOVASCULAR RISK REPORTS 2022; 16:219-229. [PMID: 36159207 PMCID: PMC9490714 DOI: 10.1007/s12170-022-00706-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The "fourth trimester" concept, defined as the first 12 weeks after delivery (and beyond), is a critical window of time for clinicians to intervene to optimize women's cardiovascular health after pregnancy. A timely and comprehensive postpartum cardiovascular assessment should be performed in all women following delivery in order to (1) follow up medical conditions present prior to conception, (2) evaluate symptoms and signs of common postpartum complications, and (3) identify risk factors and prevent future adverse cardiovascular outcomes. In this review, we aim to discuss major maternal cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, gestational diabetes mellitus, postpartum weight retention, and postpartum depression, as well as lactation as a potential protective risk modifying factor. Additionally, we will review effectiveness of outpatient interventions to enhance transitions in cardiovascular care during the fourth trimester. Recent Findings A seamless hand-off from obstetric to primary care, and potentially cardiology, is needed for early detection and management of hypertension, weight, glycemic control, stress and mood, and long-term cardiovascular risk. Additionally, the use of telemedicine, blood pressure self-monitoring, remote activity monitoring, and behavioral health coaches are potentially feasible modalities to augment clinic-based care for cardiovascular risk factors and weight management, but additional studies are needed to study their long-term effectiveness. Summary Development of a comprehensive postpartum care plan with careful consideration of each patient's risk profile and access to resources is critical to improve maternal morbidity and mortality, reduce health disparities, and achieve long-term cardiovascular health for women. Supporting postpartum well-being of women during this transition period requires a multidisciplinary approach, especially primary care engagement, and planning should start before delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunjung Choi
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
| | - Brigitte Kazzi
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, MD 21287 Baltimore, USA
| | - Bhavya Varma
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, MD 21287 Baltimore, USA
| | | | - Anum S. Minhas
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
| | - Arthur Jason Vaught
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
| | - Wendy L. Bennett
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
| | - Jennifer Lewey
- Division of Cardiology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - Erin D. Michos
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Blalock 524-B, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
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Cena L, Trainini A, Tralli N, Nodari LS, Iacona E, Ronconi L, Testoni I. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Perinatal Loss Experienced by the Parental Couple: Protocol for a Mixed Methods Study in Italy. JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e38866. [PMID: 36044641 PMCID: PMC9472504 DOI: 10.2196/38866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background At the beginning of 2020, mothers and fathers who experienced perinatal events (from conception to pregnancy and postpartum period) found themselves facing problems related to the emergency caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated difficulties for health care centers in providing care. In the unexpected and negative event of perinatal loss (ie, miscarriage, stillbirth, and neonatal death) more complications occurred. Perinatal loss is a painful and traumatic life experience that causes grief and can cause affective disorders in the parental couple—the baby dies and the couple’s plans for a family are abruptly interrupted. During the COVID-19 pandemic, limited access to perinatal bereavement care, due to the lockdown measures imposed on medical health care centers and the social distancing rules to prevent contagion, was an additional risk factor for parental mental health, such as facing a prolonged and complicated grief. Objective The main aims of this study are as follows: to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on mothers and fathers who experienced perinatal loss during the pandemic, comparing their perceptions; to evaluate their change over time between the first survey administration after bereavement and the second survey after 6 months; to examine the correlations between bereavement and anxiety, depression, couple satisfaction, spirituality, and sociodemographic variables; to investigate which psychosocial factors may negatively affect the mourning process; and to identify the potential predictors of the development of complicated grief. Methods This longitudinal observational multicenter study is structured according to a mixed methods design, with a quantitative and qualitative section. It will include a sample of parents (mothers and fathers) who experienced perinatal loss during the COVID-19 pandemic from March 2020. There are two phases—a baseline and a follow-up after 6 months. Results This protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Psychological Research, University of Padova, and by the Institutional Ethics Board of the Spedali Civili of Brescia, Italy. We expect to collect data from 34 or more couples, as determined by our sample size calculation. Conclusions This study will contribute to the understanding of the psychological processes related to perinatal loss and bereavement care during the COVID-19 pandemic. It will provide information useful to prevent the risk of complicated grief and psychopathologies among bereaved parents and to promote perinatal mental health. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/38866
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Affiliation(s)
- Loredana Cena
- Observatory of Perinatal Clinical Psychology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Science, University of Brescia, viale Europa 11 Brescia 25123, Brescia, IT
| | - Alice Trainini
- Observatory of Perinatal Clinical Psychology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Science, University of Brescia, viale Europa 11 Brescia 25123, Brescia, IT
| | - Nella Tralli
- Observatory of Perinatal Clinical Psychology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Science, University of Brescia, viale Europa 11 Brescia 25123, Brescia, IT
| | - Luisa Silvia Nodari
- Observatory of Perinatal Clinical Psychology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Science, University of Brescia, viale Europa 11 Brescia 25123, Brescia, IT
| | - Erika Iacona
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education and Applied Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, IT
| | - Lucia Ronconi
- IT and Statistical Services, Multifunctional Centre of Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, IT
| | - Ines Testoni
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education and Applied Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, IT
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Seefeld L, Mojahed A, Thiel F, Schellong J, Garthus-Niegel S. Preferences and Barriers to Counseling for and Treatment of Intimate Partner Violence, Depression, Anxiety, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among Postpartum Women: Study Protocol of the Cross-Sectional Study INVITE. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:836350. [PMID: 35422719 PMCID: PMC9001846 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.836350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The cross-sectional study INVITE (INtimate partner VIolence care and Treatment prEferences in postpartum women) aims to examine treatment and counseling preferences and barriers in relation to the experience of intimate partner violence (IPV), depression and anxiety, and (childbirth-related) posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among postpartum women in Dresden, Germany. Currently, the INVITE study consists of an interim sample of N = 1,787 participants with n = 891 completed interviews. Recruitment is ongoing, targeting a community sample of at least N = 4,000 women who complete various quantitative questionnaires via telephone interviews at 3-4 months postpartum. The differences in rates of IPV, postpartum depression and anxiety, and/or (childbirth-related) PTSD as well as treatment and counseling preferences and barriers between affected and non-affected women will be assessed. Further, predisposing variables, past and present stress exposure, enabling resources, as well as past and present health will be examined as predictors of service preferences and barriers. In this study protocol, the theoretical background, methods, as well as preliminary results regarding sociodemographic characteristics and birth-related factors of the interim sample are presented and discussed in terms of their socio-political relevance. Simultaneously assessing IPV, postpartum depression and anxiety, and (childbirth-related) PTSD will facilitate exploring comorbidities and concomitant special needs of affected women. Results of the INVITE study will therefore set the ground for well-aimed development and improvement of treatment and counseling services for the respective target groups by informing health care professionals and policy makers about specific preferences and barriers to treatment. This will yield the possibility to tailor services to the needs of postpartum women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Seefeld
- Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Amera Mojahed
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Freya Thiel
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Institute for Systems Medicine (ISM), Faculty of Medicine, Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julia Schellong
- Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Susan Garthus-Niegel
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Institute for Systems Medicine (ISM), Faculty of Medicine, Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Child Health and Development, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
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Dumas TC. Adult Health and Early Life Adversity: Behind the Curtains of Maternal Care Research. Front Physiol 2022; 13:804239. [PMID: 35309057 PMCID: PMC8928269 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.804239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The quality of one's adult health and the chances of maintaining cognitive ability in aging stem directly from the quality of care one receives as an infant. Formal studies of maternal care can be traced back at least a century. Revelations of behavioral outcomes after maternal deprivation in primates were followed by discoveries of systemic and brain growth factors mediated by the caregiver-offspring relationship in rodents. More recently, much of the genetic/epigenetic bases of maternal care has been defined and positively linked to adult health and cognitive ability in senescence. The history of this field is both tragic and fascinating. The early primate work, while informative, was abusive. The initial rodent work was ridiculed before its importance was recognized. The final lesson learned is that infant/toddler care matters a lot. Today, we have a better understanding of the biology underlying maternal care and its transmission across generations as well as a scientific basis for massaging premature infants and hugging our children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodore C. Dumas
- Psychology Department, Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, United States
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