Developmental model of depression applied to prenatal depression: role of present and past life events, past emotional disorders and pregnancy stress

The role of stress in perinatal depression and anxiety - A systematic review

Perinatal depression (PND) and anxiety affect around 20% of women, but available pharmacotherapy is not sufficiently effective in 20-60% of them, indicating a need for better understanding of these diseases. Since stress is a significant risk factor for PND, the aim was to examine the role of biological, environmental and psychological stress in PND and anxiety through a systematic literature search. Overall 210 studies were included, among which numerous rodent studies showed that perinatal stress induced depressive-like and anxious behavior, which was associated with HPA-axis alterations and morphological brain changes. Human studies indicated that the relationship between cortisol and perinatal depression/anxiety was not as clear and with many contradictions, although social and psychological stress were clearly positively associated with PND. Finally, oxytocin, synthetic neuroactive steroid and n-3 PUFA diet have been identified as potentially beneficial in the therapy of PND and anxiety, worth to be investigated in the future.

Assessing the Risk of Depression Tendency in Pregnancy and Puerperium during COVID-19 Pandemic in Poland

The aim of the study was to assess the risk and severity of depression tendency in pregnant and postpartum women and to determine the relative risk for selected psychosocial and obstetric variables. The study included 317 women in the perinatal period. The severity of depressive disorders was assessed using standard self-report scales: EPDS (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale), BDI-II (Depression Inventory-Second Edition), and HADS (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale). High rates of depression tendency in women in the third trimester of pregnancy were reported in 48.05% of pregnant women (≥10 EPDS scores), 49.36% (≥12 BDI II scores), and 41.55% (≥8 HADS-D scores). In contrast, in women in the first week after delivery, respectively: 33.74%; 28.83%; 22.08%. In the EPDS assessment, 11.69% of pregnant women and 17.79% of postpartum women confirmed the presence of self-injurious thoughts. A woman's diagnosis of depressive disorder before pregnancy increases the risk of postpartum depression tendency 3.35 times according to the EPDS, 3.51 times according to the BDI-II, and 4.89 times according to the HADS-D. Depressive disorders were significantly more common in pregnant women compared to women in the first week of postpartum. Systematic screening can identify risk factors for prenatal and postpartum depression.

Autonomic function and inflammation in pregnant women participating in a randomized controlled study of Mindfulness Based Childbirth and Parenting

BACKGROUND

Pregnancy and childbirth are significant events in many women's lives, and the prevalence of depressive symptoms increases during this vulnerable period. Apart from well documented cognitive, affective, and somatic symptoms, stress and depression are associated with physiological changes, such as reduced heart-rate variability (HRV) and activation of the inflammatory response system. Mindfulness Based Interventions may potentially have an effect on both HRV, inflammatory biomarkers, and self-assessed mental health. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the effects of a Mindfulness Childbirth and Parenting (MBCP) intervention on HRV, serum inflammatory marker levels, through an RCT study design with an active control group.

METHODS

This study is a sub-study of a larger RCT, where significant intervention effects were found on perinatal depression (PND) and perceived stress. Participants were recruited through eight maternity health clinics in Stockholm, Sweden. In this sub-study, we included altogether 80 women with increased risk for PND, and blood samples and HRV measures were available from 60 of the participants (26 in the intervention and 34 in the control group).

RESULTS

Participants who received MBCP reported a significantly larger reduction in perceived stress and a significantly larger increase in mindfulness, compared to participants who received the active control treatment. However, in this sub-study, the intervention had no significant effect on PND, inflammatory serum markers or measures of HRV.

CONCLUSIONS

No significant differences were found regarding changes in HRV measures and biomarkers of inflammation, larger studies may be needed in the future.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov ID:  NCT02441595 . Registered 12 May 2015 - Retrospectively registered.

A Multi-Cohort Examination of the Independent Contributions of Maternal Childhood Adversity and Pregnancy Stressors to the Prediction of Children's Anxiety and Depression

Women's social experiences can have long-term implications for their offspring's health, but little is known about the potential independent contributions of multiple periods of stress exposures over time. This study examined associations of maternal exposure to adversity in childhood and pregnancy with children's anxiety and depression symptoms in a large, sociodemographically diverse sample. Participants were 1389 mother-child dyads (child age M = 8.83 years; SD = 0.66; 42% Black, 42% White; 6% Hispanic) in the ECHO-PATHWAYS Consortium's three U.S. pregnancy cohorts. Women reported their exposure to childhood traumatic events (CTE) and pregnancy stressful life events (PSLE). Children self-reported on their symptoms of anxiety and depression at age 8-9 years. Regression analyses estimated associations between maternal stressors and children's internalizing problems, adjusting for confounders, and examined child sex as a modifier. Exploratory interaction analyses examined whether geospatially-linked postnatal neighborhood quality buffered effects. In adjusted models, PSLE counts positively predicted levels of children's anxiety and depression symptoms ([ßAnxiety=0.08, 95%CI [0.02, 0.13]; ßDepression=0.09, 95%CI [0.03, 0.14]); no significant associations were observed with CTE. Each additional PSLE increased odds of clinically significant anxiety symptoms by 9% (95%CI [0.02, 0.17]). Neither sex nor neighborhood quality moderated relations. Maternal stressors during pregnancy appear to have associations with middle childhood anxiety and depression across diverse sociodemographic contexts, whereas maternal history of childhood adversity may not. Effects appear comparable for boys and girls. Policies and programs addressing prevention of childhood internalizing symptoms may benefit from considering prenatal origins and the potential two-generation impact of pregnancy stress prevention and intervention.

Impact of Maternal-Newborn Separation in Italian Women with Suspected COVID-19 Infection on Psychopathological Symptoms and Quality of Interactions during Breastfeeding

INTRODUCTION

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, proximity between mothers and their newborn infants was at the core of sanitary guidelines. With the aim of stopping the virus transmission from mothers to infants and possible physical dangers due to the infection, some hospitals discouraged or even prohibited skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding.

METHOD

This study recruited 180 dyads in private and public hospitals in Italy with the aim of verifying whether mother-infant separation after delivery is associated with higher maternal psychopathological distress (assessed through the SCL-90-R) and poorer quality of dyadic interactions during breastfeeding (evaluated through the SVIA).

RESULTS

Our results showed that mothers separated from their infants displayed more anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms and a lower quality of feeding interactions on all the subscales of the SVIA (mother's affective state; interactive conflict; food refusal behavior; dyad's affective state).

CONCLUSION

In light of these results, our study suggests that separating mothers from their newborns is associated with increased psychopathological symptoms in mothers and poorer feeding interactions. These issues have been posited as key predictors of maladaptive outcomes in infants' later lives; therefore, health services must fully consider the short- and long-term consequences of separating mothers and infants in their policies in the event of future pandemics.

Prevalence and predictive factors of depressive symptoms among primiparae in antenatal care: A cross-sectional study in the new families programme

AIM/OBJECTIVE

To estimate the prevalence and assess the strength of associations between antenatal depressive symptoms and selected possible predictive factors among women attending antenatal care for the first time at the Child Health Centre.

BACKGROUND

Evidence suggests that antenatal depression is a health problem as prevalent as postpartum depression. Antenatal depressive symptoms may persist into the postpartum period and potentially disturb the attachment between mother and family.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional.

METHODS

A sample of 228 women who participated in the New Families research programme answering a questionnaire at Week 28 of pregnancy were included. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was used as outcome measure. Prevalence was estimated, and backward stepwise logistic regression analysis was performed to examine associations with somatic, psychiatric and social factors. STROBE checklist was followed.

RESULTS

Prevalence of depressive symptoms in this sample was 17.9%. Women reporting not sleeping enough had significantly higher odds of having depressive symptoms. Pregnant women with high relationship satisfaction were less likely to have depressive symptoms. Neither maternal age, education, previous depression, coming from a non-Nordic country nor having complications during pregnancy were statistically significantly associated with depressive symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

High prevalence of depressive symptoms may also be present in low-risk populations. Sleep and relationship satisfaction are topics that need to be addressed during pregnancy.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

The prevalence of depressive symptoms in this sample of low-risk pregnant women indicates that health personnel needs to be aware of depressive symptoms among women with no risk indicators. Identifying predictive factors associated with depressive symptoms may help midwives, public health nurses and general practitioners support parents. Our results indicate a potential need for screening for depressive symptoms in pregnancy and underscore the importance of involving partners in antenatal care.

PATIENT/PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

Parents and health personnel participated in designing the New Family research programme.

Implementing "Online Communities" for pregnant women in times of COVID-19 for the promotion of maternal well-being and mother-to-infant bonding: a pretest-posttest study

Background

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic elevated the risk for mental health problems in pregnant women, thereby increasing the risk for long-term negative consequences for mother and child well-being. There was an immediate need for easily accessible interventions for pregnant women experiencing elevated levels of pandemic related stress.

Methods

A three-session intervention “Online Communities” (OC) was developed at the beginning of the Dutch lockdown, and implemented by a team of midwives and psychologists specialized in Infant Mental Health. Pretest (N = 34) and posttest (N = 17) measurements of depressive symptoms, worries about COVID-19 and worries in general, and mother-to-infant bonding were administered, as well as a posttest evaluation.

Results

At pretest, the OC group was compared to two reference groups of pregnant women from an ongoing pregnancy cohort study: a COVID-19 (N = 209) and pre-COVID-19 reference group (N = 297). OC participants had significantly more depressive symptoms than both reference groups, and less positive feelings of bonding than the COVID-19 but not the pre-COVID-19 reference group. Compared to pretest, significant decreases in depressive symptoms (with significantly less participants scoring above cut-off) and worries about COVID-19 (large effect sizes) and worries in general (moderate to large effect size) were found at posttest for the OC participants. No significant improvement was found in bonding. Participants rated the intervention positively.

Conclusions

The current study provides initial evidence supporting the idea that OC is a promising and readily accessible intervention for pregnant women experiencing stress due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and possibly also applicable to other stressors.

Trial registration

This intervention was registered in the Netherlands Trial Registration (registration number Trial NL8842, registration date 18/08/2020).

Factors associated with antenatal depression during the COVID-19 (SARS-CoV2) pandemic: A cross-sectional study in a cohort of Turkish pregnant women

PURPOSE

To determine the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on antenatal depression in Turkish pregnant women.

DESIGN AND METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, data were collected from 497 pregnant women between May and July 2020 using the Edinburgh Depression Scale (EDS) to determine the effect of obstetrics history, fear of hospitalization, concerns about the pandemic, birth, and the health of both mother and infant, on antenatal depression during the COVID-19 outbreak in Turkey.

FINDINGS

The general EDS mean score of the total group was determined as mean 13.70 ± 6.22, which was higher than the critical cutoff point of 13. According to the multiple linear regression model applied in the study, the best predictive variables for the mean EDS score were determined to be concerned about completing a healthy pregnancy (r = -0.45), social media and news programs related to COVID-19 increasing levels of concern (r = -0.31), fear of hospitalization as the birth approaches (r = -0.45), having bad dreams during the COVID-19 pandemic (r = -0.41), the request for an elective cesarean delivery because of fear of catching COVID-19 (r = -0.40), fear of breastfeeding the infant (r = -0.45), and concerns that their own health would be negatively affected because of the pandemic (r = - 0.39), and these variables affected the mean EDS score negatively (total variance 40.5%, R = 0.642).

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

The COVID-19 pandemic has created an urgent need to implement specific antenatal programs to promote the psychological health of pregnant women and reduce antenatal depression during this or similar crises.

The Impact of Prepartum Depression and Birth Experience on Postpartum Mother-Infant Bonding: A Longitudinal Path Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Negative effects of impaired postpartum mother-infant-bonding on mental health of mothers, their newborn children and subsequent child development are well documented. Previous research demonstrated an association between a negative birth experience and postpartum mental health affecting postpartum mother-infant bonding. This study investigates the extent to which prepartum depression and birth experience influence the postpartum mental health of mothers and their bonding toward their newborns, and whether these influences differ according to parity and self-reported prior mental health problems.

METHOD

Three hundred and fifty-four women (18-43 years; M = 30.13, SD = 5.10) filled in the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), the Maternal-Fetal Attachment Scale (MFAS), Salmon's Item List (SIL) assessing the birth experience, and the Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire (PBQ) at pre- and postpartum; they were also asked about birth complications and parity status.

RESULTS

Primipara reported significantly more birth complications (p = 0.048), with path analysis confirming this result (p < 0.001). Birth complications were associated with a more negative rating of the overall birth experience (p < 0.001). Mothers with self-reported prior mental health problems had higher prepartum depression scores (p < 0.001) but did not differ in other variables from mothers without prior self-reported mental health problems. Differences in depression scores between mothers with self-reported prior mental health problems and those without vanished at postpartum assessment (p > 0.05). Path-analysis highlighted the key role of postpartum depression, which was the only significant predictor of postpartum impairment in maternal-child bonding (p < 0.001). Birth experience and prepartum depression scores exerted an indirect effect on postpartum maternal-child bonding, mediated by postpartum depression.

DISCUSSION

The present study demonstrates the relevance of prepartum mental health of expectant mothers, especially of those who self-report prior mental health problems. The results support that reducing mental health problems of pregnant mothers might contribute to a more positive birth experience and potentially reduce postpartum depressive symptoms. As postpartum depression is associated with impaired parent-child bonding, such targeted interventions could promote child development. Group differences between primiparous and multiparous mothers suggest that the birth experience may be an influential factor for postpartum mental health.

A dyadic approach to stress and prenatal depression in first-time parents: The mediating role of marital satisfaction

In the field of perinatal clinical psychology, most studies focus on mothers' psychological states during pregnancy, neglecting the role of their partners. This study used an Actor-Partner Interdependence Mediation Model to evaluate the mediating role of dyadic satisfaction on the relationship between perceived stress and prenatal depressive symptomatology in both members of male-female-mixed-gender couples who were expecting their first child. One hundred thirty-eight couples in their third trimester of pregnancy were asked to complete questionnaires about perceived stress, dyadic adjustment, and depression. The model revealed that there was an intrapersonal indirect effect of fathers' perceived stress on prenatal paternal depression through their marital satisfaction. Moreover, an interpersonal indirect effect was found with mothers' perceived stress being associated with prenatal paternal depression through fathers' dyadic satisfaction. Maternal indirect effects were all non-significant, suggesting that their dyadic satisfaction and that of their partner did not mediate the relation between their perceived stress and that of their partner and their prenatal depression. Findings support the importance of assessing the dyadic satisfaction of couples during pregnancy, especially in expectant fathers, and targeting it in the psychological support offered to couples as a way of improving their prenatal distress, and consequently, their mental health.

Development of the COVID-19 Perinatal Perception Questionnaire (COVID19-PPQ)

The COVID-19 pandemic affects the mental health status of perinatal women, which makes it important to gain insight into and to effectively measure specific stressors of the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, we aimed to develop a COVID-19 Perinatal Perception Questionnaire (COVID19-PPQ). In-depth interviews were conducted during the first national lockdown period with pregnant women, new mothers and perinatal healthcare professionals, resulting in (a) a 27-item pregnancy and (b) a 21-item postpartum scale. Explorative factor analyses (EFA) in sample Ia (N = 154) and Ib (N = 90), and confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) in sample IIa (N = 113) and IIb (N = 81) were conducted to test the psychometric properties of both scales. For the pregnancy scale, EFA suggested a three-factor solution (risk of infection, contact, future), which was confirmed by CFA and resulted in a final nine-item scale. For the postpartum scale, a three-factor solution (first postpartum week, COVID-19 measures, fear for infection) was suggested by EFA and confirmed by CFA, resulting in a final ten-item scale. Symptoms of depression and pregnancy-specific distress were significantly correlated with the pregnancy (sub)scale(s), while symptoms of postpartum depression and anxiety showed significant correlations with the COVID-19 measures and fear for infection subscale. The COVID19-PPQ seems to be a valid instrument for assessment of perinatal COVID-19-related stress perception, showing adequate psychometric properties for both the pregnancy and postpartum scale. Future research should examine the use of this instrument in clinical practice during new episodes of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A pathogenic cycle between insomnia and cognitive arousal fuels perinatal depression: exploring the roles of nocturnal cognitive arousal and perinatal-focused rumination

STUDY OBJECTIVES

Depression is among the most prevalent perinatal complications, yet modifiable risk factors remain elusive. Over half of perinatal women endorse clinical insomnia symptoms, which are etiologically implicated in depression in nonperinatal samples. Yet, prospective data on perinatal insomnia and depression are mixed. We sought to clarify temporal associations of insomnia and depression during peripartum, and to investigate cognitive arousal as a potential mechanism facilitating this relationship.

METHODS

Seventy pregnant women completed sociodemographic information and baseline sleep and mood symptoms between gestational weeks 25 and 30. Beginning at gestational week 30, participants completed 17 weekly online surveys assessing insomnia, depression, and three cognitive arousal indices (nocturnal cognitive arousal, perseverative thinking, and perinatal-focused rumination). Mixed effects models were conducted to test hypotheses.

RESULTS

Women were at risk for depression when experiencing insomnia (odds ratio [OR] = 2.36, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.28 to 4.35), nocturnal cognitive arousal (OR = 3.05, 95% CI = 1.60 to 5.79), perinatal-focused rumination (OR = 2.05, 95% CI = 1.11 to 3.79), and perseverative thinking (OR = 7.48, 95% CI = 3.90 to 14.32). Prospective analyses revealed bidirectional effects between insomnia and cognitive arousal, and both predicted future depression. Nocturnal cognitive arousal mediated 23-43% of the effect of insomnia on depression. Insomnia mediated 12%-18% of the effect of nocturnal cognitive arousal on depression. A similar pattern was observed with perinatal-focused rumination. Depression did not predict insomnia.

CONCLUSION

Nocturnal cognitive arousal, including ruminating on perinatal concerns while trying to fall asleep, fuels insomnia. In turn, lying awake at night provides an opportunity for nocturnal cognitive arousal. This cycle feeds perinatal depression. Daytime cognitive arousal may indirectly disrupt sleep as perseverating during the day persists into the night.

Associations Between Marital Discord and Depressive Symptoms: A Cross-Cultural Analysis

The objectives of this study were to investigate actor and partner effects of the association between marital discord and depressive symptoms in a sample of 4,779 couples from 11 European countries that were divided into three groups (i.e., Northern, Central, Southern Europe), and evaluate the potential gender and cross-cultural invariance of this association. Actor-partner interdependence models were used to analyze the cross-sectional associations between self-reported perceived marital conflict and depressive symptoms. Marital conflict was significantly and positively associated with self-reported depressive symptoms for husbands and wives (actor effects), as well as with partner-reported depressive symptoms (partner effects). Pooling across cultural groups, no significant difference in the magnitude of actor or partner effects based on gender was found. The magnitude of the actor effects varied across cultural groupings only for women: a significantly weaker association existed for women residing in Northern Europe relative to women in Central or Southern Europe. These results suggest that marital discord is a reliable correlate of depressive symptoms for European couples and that the magnitude of the positive association varies by culture for women. Should these results be replicated longitudinally, couple-based interventions may be indicated to reduce marital discord and prevent and treat depression in Europe.

Variations in response to trauma and hippocampal subfield changes

Models of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) suggest that the hippocampus is key to the persistence of traumatic memory. Yet very little is known about the precise changes that take place in this structure, nor their relation with PTSD symptoms. Previous studies have mostly used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at low resolutions, making it impossible to identify sensitive anatomical landmarks, or compared groups often unequally matched in terms of traumatic exposure. The present cross-sectional study included 92 individuals who had all been exposed to the terrorist attacks in Paris on November 13, 2015 (53 of whom subsequently developed PTSD) and 56 individuals who had not been exposed. Hippocampal subfield volumes were estimated using cross-validated automatic segmentation of high-resolution MRI images. Results revealed changes in CA1 and CA2-3/dentate gyrus (DG) volumes in individuals with PTSD, but not in resilient (i.e., exposed but without PTSD) individuals, after controlling for potential nuisance variables such as previous traumatic exposure and substance abuse. In line with current models of hippocampal subfield functions, CA1 changes were linked to the uncontrollable re-experiencing of intrusive memories, while CA2-3/DG changes, potentially exacerbated by comorbid depression, fostered the overgeneralization of fear linked to avoidance and hypervigilance behaviors. Additional analyses revealed that CA1 integrity was linked to optimum functioning of the memory control network in resilient individuals. These findings shed new light on potential pathophysiological mechanisms in the hippocampus subtending the development of PTSD and the failure to recover from trauma.

COVID-19-Related Changes to Pregnant People's Work-Plans Increase Prenatal Depression

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented rates of unemployment in the United States. Pregnant workers may be especially affected as they are over-represented in low-wage service and hospitality industries impacted by the pandemic. We surveyed an online convenience sample of currently working pregnant people living in the U.S. (n = 1,417) to determine whether COVID-19-related changes to how long individuals planned to work during their pregnancy, and uncertainty about these changes, were associated with prenatal depression. As hypothesized, both COVID-19-related work-plan changes (OR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.36-2.42, p < 0.001) and uncertainty about the precise nature of these changes (OR = 2.62, 95% CI 1.14-6.0, p = 0.022) were associated with significantly higher odds of a clinically-significant depression score. These effects appeared to be even greater among individuals who continued working outside the home during the pandemic. Since the U.S. is one of the few countries in the world that does not guarantee paid parental leave, pregnant people may be forced to choose between keeping their jobs and risking infection during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our results demonstrate a need for immediate suspension of the eligibility requirements for the Family and Medical Leave Act and/or universal access to both paid family leave and prenatal depression screening. This would help to alleviate these concerns and provide pregnant people with more options while preserving their employment status and financial security.

Direct and indirect determinants of prenatal depression among Arab-Bedouin women in Israel: The role of stressful life events and social support

OBJECTIVE

Prenatal depression (PND) negatively affects the health and well-being of both mother and child. The aim of this study was to identify the direct and indirect determinants of prenatal depression symptoms (PNDS) among Arab-Bedouin women in southern Israel.

DESIGN

Data collection was conducted in two women's health centers from October 2017 to February 2018.

SETTING

Participants were recruited during visits to women's health centers in southern Israel.

PARTICIPANTS

We recruited 376 Arab-Bedouin women as part of a larger study of perinatal health and well-being. We recruited 376 Arab-Bedouin women as part of a larger study of perinatal health and well-being. All women were 18+ years of age and 26-38 weeks of gestational age.

MEASUREMENTS

PNDS were measured by an Arabic version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. We computed path analyses to identify direct and indirect determinants of PND and estimated the contribution of stressful life events and social support.

RESULTS

Positive direct associations emerged between stressful life events, history of depression and gestational age, and PNDS; direct inverse associations were found between social support, PND awareness, and education, and PNDS. History of depression was the single strongest direct predictor of PNDS yet when considering combined direct and indirect effects, the contribution of stressful life events is greater. Stressful life events (via history of depression and PND awareness) and education (via PND awareness) had both direct and indirect effects on PNDS. Age of the mother indirectly affects PNDS via education and PND awareness. Polygamy emerged as neither a direct nor indirect predictor of PNDS.

CONCLUSIONS

PNDS in the underserved and understudied Bedouin women has serval direct and indirect predictors. Interventions aiming at reducing stress and increasing social support, via PND awareness might be successful in reducing PND and possibly future postpartum depression.

Intimate Relationships and Depression: Searching for Causation in the Sea of Association

This article provides a critical review of existing research on intimate (marriage or marriage-like) relationship distress and risk for depression. Using the meta-framework of research triangulation, we seek to synthesize research evidence across several different methodologies and study designs and to draw the most reliable conclusion regarding a potential causal association between relationship distress and depression. Focusing on existing correlational (i.e., observational), genetically informed, and intervention (i.e., experimental) research on the association between relationship distress and depression, we conclude that the existing body of research evidence supports the claim that relationship distress is a causal risk factor for depression. A secondary aim of the article is to highlight a variety of effective methods that, when viewed from the perspective of triangulation, enhance the pursuit of causal inference, including propensity score matching, target trial emulation, directed acyclic graph approach, and Mendelian randomization.

Predictors of Prenatal Depression: A Cross-Sectional Study in Rural Pakistan

Objective: To determine the prevalence and association of prenatal depression with socioeconomic, demographic and personal factors among pregnant women living in Kallar Syedan, Rawalpindi, Pakistan. Methods: Five hundred women in the second and third trimester of pregnancy, living in Kallar Syedan, a rural area of district Rawalpindi Pakistan, were included in the study. Depression was assessed using "Patient health questionnaire" (PHQ9) in Urdu, with a cut-off score of 10. Multi-dimensional scale of perceived social support (MSPSS) was used to assess perceived social support. Life Events and Difficulties Schedule (LEDS) were used to measure stressful life events in past 1 year. Tool to assess intimate partner violence (IPV) was based on WHO Multi Country Study on "Women's Health and Domestic Violence against Women." Results: Prevalence of prenatal depression was found to be 27%. Number of pregnancies was significantly associated with prenatal depression (p < 0.01). Women living in a joint family and those who perceived themselves as moderately satisfied or not satisfied with their life in the next 4 years were found to be depressed (p < 0.01, OR 6.9, CI 1.77-26.73). Depressive symptomatology in women who experienced more than five stressful life events in last 1 year was three times higher (p < 0.001, OR 3.2, CI 1.68-5.98) than in women with 1-2 stressful events. Women who were supported by their significant others or their family members had 0.9 times (p < 0.01, OR 0.9, CI 0.85-0.96) less chance of getting depressed. Pregnant women who were psychologically abused by their partners were 1.5 times more depressed (p < 0.05 CI 1.12-2.51). Odds of having depression was also high in women who had less mean score of MSSI (p < 0.05, OR 1.1, CI 1.01-1.09). Women who had suitable accommodation had 0.5 times less chance of having depression than others (p < 0.05, OR 0.5, CI 0.27-0.92). Conclusion: Over a quarter of the women in the study population reported prenatal depression, which were predicted predominantly by psychosocial variables.

Child Sexual Abuse and Pregnancy: A Systematic Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

Child sexual abuse is related to many negative outcomes but less known is the effect on pregnancy and childbirth.

OBJECTIVE

This review critically examined the literature on the occurrence of child sexual abuse and outcomes associated with this abuse during pregnancy and childbirth.

METHODS

Five databases were searched over 50 years using an iterative approach and the terms pregnancy, sexual abuse/assault, childbirth/labour, identifying 49 studies.

RESULTS

The prevalence of child sexual abuse in pregnant women ranged from 2.63% to 37.25 with certain characteristics more common with a higher (e.g., specific questions, low income) or lower (broad questions, higher education) prevalence. Compared to women with no history of abuse, child sexual abuse survivors may have more concerns with their care, greater health complaints, fear childbirth and have difficulties with delivery. They also had a higher likelihood of PTSD symptomology and anxiety, consumed more harmful substances (e.g., alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs) and had greater concerns with their appearance, poorer health, sleep and may also have a higher risk of re-victimisation.

CONCLUSIONS

The balance of evidence suggests that compared to non-abused women, women with a child abuse history have more adverse experiences with pregnancy, childbirth, and care, with their abuse history, likely contributes to harmful behaviours and psychopathology. However, variability in operationalisation and measurement of abuse may contribute to these findings so tentative conclusions are drawn. Future research should examine the generalisability of the findings (relating to scale limitations) and recommendations for screening (e.g., sensitive items, scoring). Clinical implications of the findings point to the need for early identification of women with a child abuse history as such women require trauma-sensitive care and consideration. A useful tool is the Pregnancy-related Anxiety Scale which provides insights into specific areas of concern.

Depression and its associated factors among pregnant women in central Vietnam

To date, little attention has been given to prenatal depression, especially in low and middle-income countries. The aim of this research was to assess the prevalence of depression and its associated factors amongst pregnant women in a central Vietnamese city. This cross-sectional study included 150 pregnant women from 29 to 40 weeks of gestation, from eight wards of Hue city, via quota sampling from February to May 2019. We employed the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) to assess depression. Findings suggest the need to provide routine screening of pregnant women in primary care for depressive symptoms and other mental health problems.

My job, my child, my house: the predictive value of job- and housework-related factors on depressive symptoms during the postpartum period

BACKGROUND

Many mothers combine two sides of their life: They are both educated employees and family organizers. The aim of this study is to investigate risk and protective factors of depressive symptoms during the postpartum period (PPD symptoms) on both those sides of mothers' life, including education, job-, and housework-related factors.

METHODS

Data (n = 689) were drawn from the prospective-longitudinal cohort study "Dresden Study on Parenting, Work, and Mental Health" (DREAM). Education, job satisfaction, job burden, and the housework-related factor ministering to family needs (MTFN) were measured during pregnancy. Depressive symptoms were measured 8 weeks postpartum. Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted.

RESULTS

While education was not significantly associated with PPD symptoms, low job satisfaction, high job burden, and low MTFN levels were significant risk factors for PPD symptoms. When controlling for further potential confounders, job satisfaction and job burden remained significant predictors.

LIMITATIONS

Generalization of findings might be limited due to participation bias and some systematic dropout.

CONCLUSIONS

Job characteristics should be considered in future research on postpartum mental health. For the prevention of PPD symptoms, it seems important to ensure satisfying and less burdensome working conditions during pregnancy. Additionally, the results indicate that further research on the effects of housework-related factors on PPD symptoms is worthwhile.

Prenatal Psychological Distress and Access to Mental Health Care in the ELFE Cohort

Background:

Pregnant women are vulnerable to the deleterious impact of environmental stressors. The aims were to identify the environmental and pregnancy characteristics independently associated with prenatal psychological distress and access to mental health care.

Methods:

We used data from the French cohort Étude Longitudinale Française depuis l’Enfance (ELFE), a nationally representative cohort of children followed-up from birth to adulthood. Information about prenatal psychological status and access to mental health care was collected during the maternity stay. Maternal/pregnancy characteristics independently associated with psychological distress and access to mental health care were explored using multivariate analyses.

Results:

Of the 15,143 mothers included, 12.6% reported prenatal psychological distress. Prenatal distress was more frequent in women with very low economical status, alcohol/tobacco use, unplanned/unwanted pregnancy, late pregnancy declaration, multiparity and complicated pregnancy (high number of prenatal visits, prenatal diagnosis examination, obstetrical complications). Of the women reporting prenatal distress, 25% had a prenatal consultation with a mental health specialist and 11% used psychotropic drugs during pregnancy. Decreased likelihood to consult a mental health specialist was found in young women, with intermediate educational level and born abroad.

Limitations:

Causal inferences should be made cautiously as the questionnaire did not collect information on the temporal sequence between psychological distress and associated characteristics.

Conclusions:

Women with social and obstetrical vulnerabilities are at increased risk of poor mental health during pregnancy. Improving mental health care access during pregnancy is a public health priority.

Adversity in childhood and depression in pregnancy

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been found to be associated with various health conditions; however, there is dearth of evidence on the relationship between ACEs and prenatal depression. This study was conducted to determine the association between overall ACE score and prenatal depression symptoms, assess the moderating effect of social support and partner support on this relationship, and determine the association between individual ACE scores and prenatal depression. A secondary analysis was conducted of data from an RCT that assessed the feasibility of e-screening for maternal mental health among 636 pregnant women recruited from antenatal clinics. Two logistic regression models were built to reach our objectives. Over 80% of the participants were older than 25 years and had education beyond high school. Eighteen percent of the women had an ACE score of four or more. Univariable analysis found a 2.5-fold increase in the odds of prenatal depression for women with an ACEs score of ≥ 4. When examining the overall ACE score, lack of social support during pregnancy [AOR = 4.16; 95%CI (2.10-10.35)] and partner's relationship [AOR = 2.23; 95%CI (1.12-4.44)] were associated with prenatal depression while among the individual ACE scores, living with a person who went to prison was found to be associated with prenatal depression even when controlled for all variables. No moderating effect was found. These findings suggest for the improvement of partner's relationship and provision of social support before women conceive, in order to mitigate the effect of these adversities.

Effects of a mindfulness based childbirth and parenting program on pregnant women's perceived stress and risk of perinatal depression-Results from a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to test the efficacy of a Mindfulness-Based Childbirth and Parenting Program (MBCP) in reducing pregnant women's perceived stress and preventing perinatal depression compared to an active control condition.

METHOD

First time pregnant women (n = 197) at risk of perinatal depression were randomized to MBCP or an active control treatment, which consisted of a Lamaze childbirth class. At baseline and post-intervention, participants filled out questionnaires on perceived stress, depressive symptoms, positive states of mind, and five facets of mindfulness.

RESULTS

Compared to the active control treatment, MBCP significantly reduced perceived stress (p = 0.038, d = 0.30) and depressive symptoms (p = 0.004, d = 0.42), and increased positive states of mind (p = 0.005, d = 0.41) and self-reported mindfulness (p = 0.039, d = 0.30). Moreover, change in mindfulness possibly mediated the treatment effects of MBCP on stress, depression symptoms, and positive states of mind. The subscales "non-reactivity to inner experience" and "non-judging of experience" seemed to have the strongest mediating effects.

LIMITATIONS

The outcomes were self-report questionnaires, the participants were not blinded to treatment condition and the condition was confounded by number of sessions.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that MBCP is more effective in decreasing perceived stress and risk of perinatal depression compared to a Lamaze childbirth class. The results also contribute to our understanding of the underlying psychological mechanisms through which the reduction of stress and depression symptoms may operate. Thus, this study increases our knowledge about efficient intervention strategies to prevent perinatal depression and promote mental wellbeing among pregnant women.

Increase of depressive symptomatology during pregnancy over 25 years' time in four population based cohorts

BACKGROUND

The use of psychotropic drugs for depression during pregnancy has increased over the past decades, but it is unclear whether women are becoming more depressed over time.

METHODS

We investigated the occurrence of depressive symptoms during pregnancy in four cohorts (N 300-2000) in the same area in the Netherlands over a period of 25 years using a similar study design. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Edinburgh Depression Scale (EDS) at various time points during pregnancy. Demographics, lifestyle factors, obstetric characteristics and EDS scores were compared between the four cohorts.

RESULTS

From 1988 to 2014, Mean EDS scores during the first and third trimester of pregnancy increased significantly (P < 0.001). The number of women with elevated EDS scores doubled from 7% in 1988-1989 to 14% in 2012-2014 (P = 0.001). The number of highly educated women increased from 23% to 66% and those with paid employment from 75% to 95%, while smoking and alcohol use decreased significantly (all Ps < 0.001). These trends were similar to those of the National Statistics. A previous history of depression, multi-parity and paid employment were associated with higher EDS scores.

LIMITATIONS

Women were highly educated, predominantly Caucasian and had a partner.

CONCLUSIONS

Paradoxically, there was a significant increase in depressive symptomatology during pregnancy over a period of 25 years, while protective factors for depression during pregnancy improved. Potential explanations could be greater awareness, high societal expectations, use of social media or the stressful combination of paid work and children at home.

Perinatal Depressive Symptoms: Prevalence and Associated Psychosocial Factors

Perinatal depression is a major depression episode that starts during pregnancy and the postpartum period; and is an important cause of health risks in women and infants. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with information from the records of 112 pregnant women or in the immediate postpartum period who were surveyed to determine the possible association between perinatal depressive symptoms and psychosocial factors occurring in the last year. The prevalence of clinically significant perinatal depressive symptoms using the Edinburgh scale was of 22.36%. The logistic regression model found association between clinically significant perinatal depressive symptoms (score on the Edinburgh scale ≥ 12 and the following psychosocial factors: end of the couple's relationship (OR=6.26; 95% CI, 1.91-20.49), severe economic problems (OR=6.61; 95% CI, 1.86-23.45), and the death of a family member (OR=3.79; 95% CI, 1.12-12.74). In this study one in four women had broken up with their partner and had severe economic problems during pregnancy, also one of ten had suffered the death of a loved one in the past year. These psychosocial factors were strongly associated with the presence of depressive symptoms with clinical importance. These finding offer the opportunity to consider psychosocial factors as a source of maternal stress that could be easily identified in the prenatal controls that pregnant women receive to identify women at risk of experiencing depressive symptoms in the perinatal period, which will enable appropriate treatment to be given to those who need it.

[Inflammatory Biomarkers and Postpartum Depression: A Systematic Review of Literature]

OBJECTIVE

Postpartum Depression (PPD) affects over 15% new mothers. Its etiology is multifactorial and still partly unknown. Some hypotheses suggest a link with inflammation. This review aims to explore the existence of inflammatory biomarkers associated with PPD. The possibility of potential adjunct treatments, linked with these biomarkers, will be discussed.

METHOD

The systematic review of literature was performed using in PubMed, PsycInfo and Embase, and 25 articles were included. Various biomarkers were identified. The most often studied are C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukins 6 and 10, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interferon-gamma.

RESULTS

Although few results appear as significant during the various testing times, the dosage of some inflammation biomarkers, including CRP, at the very end of pregnancy or immediately after delivery could predict PPD. Interactions between inflammation and the corticotropic axis could explain PPD onset. Epigenetic mechanisms could lead to pro-inflammatory state. Several therapeutics provide interest due to their anti-inflammatory property.

CONCLUSIONS

Further studies are needed to assess these biomarkers value as predictive factors of PPD and to consider adjunct treatments to antidepressants. If this value is confirmed, the inflammatory marker dosage, in particular CRP, could help to provide early screening of women at risk of PPD, parallel of the clinical evaluation. A zinc supplementation could then be offered.

Abuse as a risk factor for prenatal depressive symptoms: a meta-analysis

Depression is the most common mental disorder in pregnancy. An important risk factor in the development of prenatal depression is lifetime history of abuse. The current review quantitatively synthesized research on the association between history of abuse and prenatal depressive symptoms using a meta-analytic technique. A total of 3322 articles were identified through electronic searches of the following databases: PsycINFO, PubMed, CINAHL, and EMBASE Cochrane Collaboration databases between the years of 1980 and 2016. All were independently screened against the following inclusion criteria: articles reporting on original data that included measures of prenatal depression and abuse. Data were extracted by the first and second authors. Descriptive analyses were conducted using Excel version 15.32, and all analyses involving effect sizes were conducted using comprehensive meta-analysis (CMA) version 3.0. Seventy articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analyses. Meta-bias detected no publication bias. Abuse had a significant positive relation with prenatal depressive symptoms, with effect sizes in the moderate range for any abuse ([Formula: see text] = 0.287), physical abuse ([Formula: see text] = 0.271), sexual abuse ([Formula: see text] = 0.259), and emotional abuse ([Formula: see text] = 0.340; Cohen 1969. Statistical power analysis for the behavioral sciences. Academic Press, New York). The meta-analyses found a robust relation between abuse and prenatal depressive symptoms holding across a variety of demographic and study design characteristics. These results reinforce the established association between trauma victimization and subsequent psychopathology, extending current knowledge to specifically address the under-studied area of prenatal depression. These findings highlight the need for women who have survived child or adulthood abuse to receive appropriate referral and psychological treatment to mitigate their risk for prenatal depression.

Depression among pregnant women and associated factors in Hawassa city, Ethiopia: an institution-based cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Depression is the most prevalent psychiatric disorder during pregnancy. It is not only common and chronic among women throughout the world but also principal source of disability in pregnant women. The scarce information and limited attention to the problem might aggravate the consequence of the problem and can limit the intervention to be taken. The objective of the study was to assess the prevalence and factors associated with depression among pregnant women in public health institutions, Hawassa, Ethiopia.

METHODS

Institution based cross sectional study was conducted in May to July 2017. Pregnant women were selected by using systematic sampling technique. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews on socio-demographic, obstetric, psychosocial characteristics and depressive symptoms. Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and Oslo Social Support Scale (OSS-3) were used to asses' depressive symptoms and social support respectively. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were carried out.

RESULTS

The mean age of the respondents was 23.82 ± (SD = 6.65) years. The prevalence of antenatal depression was 21.5%. When we adjusted for the effect of potential confounding variables, being in age group of 20-30 years [AOR = 5.85 (95% CI: (3.70, 10.14)], current pregnancy complication [AOR = 4.98 (95% CI: (3.01, 10.37)], unplanned pregnancy [AOR = 7.12, (95% CI: (3.12, 9.63)], categories of stressors (LTE) Health risk [AOR = 1.76, (95% CI: (1.01, 3.22)], previous history of depression [AOR = 2.76 (95% CI: (1.94, 6.75)], history of abortion [AOR = 1.52, (95% CI:1.04, 5.09)], history of still birth [AOR = 1.18, (95% CI: 1.08, 2.91)], poor social support [AOR = 2.14, (95% CI: 1.49, 3.11)] and poor baby father support [AOR = 3.21 (95% CI:1.93, 6.71)] were significantly associated with antenatal depression.

CONCLUSION

For early detection and appropriate intervention, antenatal clinics should develop screening tools for depression during the routine antenatal care.

Prevalence and determinants of antenatal depression among pregnant women in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Antenatal depression is more prevalent in low and middle income countries as compared to high income countries. It has now been documented as a global public health problem owing to its severity, chronic nature and recurrence as well as its negative influence on the general health of women and development of children. However, in Ethiopia, there are few studies with highly variable and inconsistent findings. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of antenatal depression and its determinants among pregnant women in Ethiopia.

METHODS

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we exhaustively searched several databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct and Cochrane Library. To estimate the pooled prevalence, studies reporting the prevalence of antenatal depression and its determinants were included. Data were extracted using a standardized data extraction format prepared in Microsoft Excel and transferred to STATA 14 statistical software for analysis. To assess heterogeneity, the Cochrane Q test statistics and I2 test were used. Since the included studies exhibit considerable heterogeneity, a random effect meta- analysis model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence of antenatal depression. Finally, the association between determinant factors and antenatal depression were assessed.

RESULTS

The overall pooled prevalence of antenatal depression, in Ethiopia, was 24.2% (95% CI: 19.8, 28.6). The subgroup analysis of this study indicated that the highest prevalence was reported from Addis Ababa region with a prevalence of 26.9% (21.9-32.1) whereas the lowest prevalence was reported from Amhara region, 17.25 (95% CI: 6.34, 28.17). Presence of previous history of abortion (OR: 3.0, 95% CI: 2.1, 4.4), presence of marital conflict (OR: 7.2; 95% CI: 2.7, 19.0), lack of social support from husband (OR: 3.2: 95% CI: 1.2, 8.9), and previous history of pregnancy complication (OR: 3.2: 95% CI: 1.8, 5.8) were found to be determinants of antenatal depression.

CONCLUSION

The pooled prevalence of antenatal depression, in Ethiopia, was relatively high. Presence of previous history of abortion, presence of marital conflict, lack of social support from husband, presence of previous history of pregnancy complications were the main determinants of antenatal depression in Ethiopia.

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Perinatal Depression in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

There is no pooled evidence regarding the prevalence and potential associated factors of perinatal depression in Ethiopian community. Hence, the current review aimed to examine the prevalence and associated factors of perinatal depression in Ethiopia.

METHOD

A computerized systematic literature search was made in MEDLINE, Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Each database was searched from its start date to January 2018. All included articles were published in English, which evaluated prevalence and associated factors of perinatal depression in Ethiopia. Pooled estimations with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated with DerSimonian-Laird (DL) random-effects model. Publication bias was evaluated by using inspection of funnel plots and statistical tests.

RESULT

Eight observational studies with an overall sample size of 4624 mothers were included in the review. The pooled prevalence of perinatal depression from these studies reported that the prevalence of perinatal depression in Ethiopia is 25.8% [95% CI, 24.6%-27.1%]. A pervious history of depression [RR: 3.78 (95% CI, 2.18-6.57), I2 = 41.6%], poor socioeconomic status [RR: 4.67 (95% CI, 2.89-7.53), I2 = 0%], not living with spouse [RR: 3.76 (95% CI, 1.96-7.38), I2 = 36.4%], having obstetric complications in previous and/or this pregnancy [RR: 2.74 (95% CI, 1.48-5.06), I2 = 67.7%], and having unplanned pregnancy [RR: 2.73 (95% CI, 2.11-3.53), I2 = 0%] were the major factors associated with perinatal depression.

CONCLUSION

The pooled prevalence of perinatal depression in Ethiopia is far above most developed as well as developing countries. Hence, to realize the sustainable development goals (SDGs) outlined by united nation, much attention should be given to improve maternal mental health through reduction of identified modifiable factors. Maternal health programs, polices, and activities should incorporate maternal mental health as a core component.

Mother-infant bonding in the postpartum period: assessment of the impact of pre-delivery factors in a clinical sample

This study aims to examine the extent to which a variety of pre-delivery factors (demographic, reproductive, psychological, psychiatric, and psychopathological) predict disturbances in mother-infant bonding (MIB) in the postpartum period. Two hundred fifty-one pregnant women enrolled at a public perinatal psychiatric service were assessed between the first and second trimester of pregnancy and at 6-7 weeks after delivery. During pregnancy, the psychological risk factors were assessed with the Vulnerable Personality Style Questionnaire, the Marital Adjustment Scale, the Early Trauma Inventory, and the General Health Questionnaire. To detect psychopathology, the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory were used. At the postpartum evaluation, MIB was measured by the Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire. The results of the final regression model showed that emotional abuse in childhood, family psychiatric history, previous psychiatric hospitalization, and anxiety during pregnancy were significant predictors of MIB disturbances in postpartum, explaining 10.7% of the variance. The evaluation of women's risk factors in pregnancy is important in order to prevent MIB disturbances and thus to ensure the welfare of mothers and their babies.

The association between pre-pregnancy obesity and screening results of depression for all trimesters of pregnancy, postpartum and 1 year after birth: a cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To determine the relationship between pre-pregnancy obesity and screening results of gestational and post-delivery depression in women referred to the health centers of Tabriz, Iran.

METHODS

In this cohort study, 62 and 245 pregnant women with class 2-3 obesity [body mass index (BMI)≥35 kg/m2] and normal-weight (BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m2) were enrolled, respectively, in the first trimester of pregnancy from December 2012 to January 2016. For matching of groups, nulliparous and multiparous mothers aged 18-35 years were selected with the ratio of 1:4 in obese and normal BMI groups from the same recruitment center and to controlling the confounder factors, inclusion criteria were considered. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was completed in five time points, the first, second, third trimester of pregnancy, 6-8 weeks and 12 months after delivery. Independent t-test, Mann-Whitney, chi-square, Fisher's exact tests and multivariate logistic and linear regression adjusted for confounders were used. P<0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

RESULTS

Based on the EPDS, 12.7% of normal weight women in first, 13.5% in second, 10.2% in third trimester of pregnancy, 7.8% in 6-8 weeks of postpartum and 10.6% in 1 year after delivery screened positive for depression. This proportion was greater in class 2-3 obese women (32.3%, 33.3%, 28.8% in trimesters of pregnancy and 35.4%, 19.4% in postpartum period, respectively) (P<0.05). The results of multivariate logistic regression adjusted for confounding factors showed that the risk of depression in the first trimester of pregnancy for class 2-3 obesity was 3.25-fold greater than normal weight group [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 3.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.68-6.28]. This risk was 3.29-fold in the second (aOR 3.29, 95% CI 1.67-6.47), 4-folds in the third trimester (aOR 4.003, 95% CI 1.84-8.70 for third), 7.5-fold in the 6-8 weeks of postpartum (aOR 7.46, 95% CI 3.30-16.89) and 1.83-fold (aOR 7.46, 95% CI 3.30-16.89) for 1 year after birth.

CONCLUSIONS

Pre-pregnancy obesity was associated with probability of gestational and post-delivery depression. Therefore, training and planning to conduct required interventions to resolve obesity seem be helpful in this regard.

Perinatal depression and psychosis: an update

About 85% of women experience some type of postpartum mood disturbance. Generally, the symptoms are mild and short-lived, but a minority of women develop depressive illness or sudden psychosis. About half of episodes of apparently postnatal depression start during pregnancy and some seemingly postpartum psychoses start before delivery. Untreated antenatal depression can lead to poor obstetric outcomes, subsequent depression in the mother, and developmental disadvantage and depression later in life in the offspring. In this article we discuss the aetiology of perinatal depression and consider recommended pharmaceutical and psychosocial management of postpartum blues, perinatal depression and postpartum psychosis.

Childhood Maltreatment and Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders: A Systematic Review

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) compromise maternal and child well-being and may be influenced by traumatic experiences across the life course. A potent and common form of trauma is childhood maltreatment, but its specific impact on PMADs is not well understood. A systematic review was undertaken to synthesize empirical literature on the relationship between maternal histories of childhood maltreatment and PMADs. Of the 876 citations retrieved, 35 reports from a total of 26,239 participants met inclusion criteria, documenting substantial rates of childhood maltreatment and PMADs. Robust trends of association were observed between childhood maltreatment and perinatal depression, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder, but findings for anxiety were less consistent. Examining multivariate results suggested that childhood maltreatment predicts PMADs above and beyond sociodemographic, psychiatric, perinatal, and psychosocial factors, but may also be partially mediated by variables such as later victimization and moderated by protective early relationships. Future research should test mediating and moderating pathways using prospective cohorts, expanding to cross-cultural settings and other disorder outcomes. Treatment and prevention of childhood maltreatment and its sequelae may help mitigate risk for perinatal psychopathology and its impact on maternal and child outcomes.

Prevalence of antenatal depression and associated factors among pregnant women hospitalized in a high-risk pregnancy unit in Greece

PURPOSE

Women who face pregnancy complications may require hospitalization in a high-risk pregnancy unit (HRPU), and this may have a negative impact on the pregnant woman's mental health. The purpose of this study was to screen for depressive symptoms in pregnant women admitted in a high-risk pregnancy unit and also to investigate associated risk factors.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study that enrolled pregnant women admitted at ≥24 gestational weeks in a university hospital HRPU, between September 2014 and November 2015. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was used to assess depressive symptoms on admission. A cutoff score ≥13 was considered as indicative of depression. Test results were then correlated with the reasons that led to the women's admission as well as socio-demographic characteristics.

RESULTS

Overall, 157 of the women admitted in the HRPU during the study period were eligible for the study and agreed to complete the questionnaire. The mean age of the pregnant women was 30 ± 6 years, and the mean gestational week at admission was 32 ± 3 weeks. The prevalence of antenatal depression (score ≥13) was 28 % (44/157). In the multivariate analysis, antenatal depression was significantly correlated with smoking (OR = 2.681, 95 % CI 1.089-6.601) and the existence of thoughts for pregnancy termination (OR = 3.624, 95 % CI 1.149-11.427).

CONCLUSIONS

Approximately one quarter of pregnant women hospitalized in the HRPU may show signs of depression at the time of admission. Smoking and an unwanted pregnancy were found to be independently associated with antenatal depression, whereas no association was found with any obstetric parameters.

The Specific Role of Relationship Life Events in the Onset of Depression during Pregnancy and the Postpartum

BACKGROUND

The precipitating role of life events in the onset of depression is well-established. The present study sought to examine whether life events hypothesised to be personally salient would be more strongly associated with depression than other life events. In a sample of women making the first transition to parenthood, we hypothesised that negative events related to the partner relationship would be particularly salient and thus more strongly predictive of depression than other events.

METHODS

A community-based sample of 316 first-time mothers stratified by psychosocial risk completed interviews at 32 weeks gestation and 29 weeks postpartum to assess dated occurrence of life events and depression onsets from conception to 29 weeks postpartum. Complete data was available from 273 (86.4%). Cox proportional hazards regression was used to examine risk for onset of depression in the 6 months following a relationship event versus other events, after accounting for past history of depression and other potential confounders.

RESULTS

52 women (19.0%) experienced an onset of depression between conception and 6 months postpartum. Both relationship events (Hazard Ratio = 2.1, p = .001) and other life events (Hazard Ratio = 1.3, p = .020) were associated with increased risk for depression onset; however, relationship events showed a significantly greater risk for depression than did other life events (p = .044).

CONCLUSIONS

The results are consistent with the hypothesis that personally salient events are more predictive of depression onset than other events. Further, they indicate the clinical significance of events related to the partner relationship during pregnancy and the postpartum.

Patency of the anterior choroidal artery covered with a flow-diverter stent

OBJECT

The concept of the flow-diverter stent (FDS) is to induce aneurysmal thrombosis while preserving the patency of the parent vessel and any covered branches. In some circumstances, it is impossible to avoid dangerously covering small branches, such as the anterior choroidal artery (AChA), with the stent. In this paper, the authors describe the clinical and angiographic effects of covering the AChA with an FDS.

METHODS

Between April 2011 and July 2013, 92 patients with intracranial aneurysms were treated with the use of FDSs in the authors’ institution. For 20 consecutive patients (21.7%) retrospectively included in this study, this involved the unavoidable covering of the AChA with a single FDS during endovascular therapy. AChAs feeding the choroid plexus were classified as the long-course group (14 cases), and those not feeding the choroid plexus were classified as the short-course group (6 cases). Clinical symptoms and the angiographic aspect of the AChA were evaluated immediately after stent delivery and during follow-up. Neurological examinations were performed to rule out hemiparesis, hemihypesthesia, hemianopsia, and other cortical signs.

RESULTS

FDS placement had no immediate effect on AChA blood flow. Data were obtained from 1-month clinical follow-up in all patients and from midterm angiographic follow-up in 17 patients (85.0%), with a mean length of 9.8 ± 5.4 months. No patient in either group complained of transient or permanent symptoms related to an AChA occlusion. In all cases, the AChA remained patent without any flow changes.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that when impossible to avoid, the AChA may be safely covered with a single FDS during intracranial aneurysm treatment, irrespective of anatomy and anastomoses.

Inflammatory and Epigenetic Pathways for Perinatal Depression

Depression during the perinatal period is common and can have adverse consequences for women and their children. Yet, the biobehavioral mechanisms underlying perinatal depression are not known. Adverse early life experiences increase the risk for adult depression. One potential mechanism by which this increased risk occurs is epigenetic embedding of inflammatory pathways. The purpose of this article is to propose a conceptual model that explicates the linkage between early life adversity and the risk for maternal depression. The model posits that early life adversity embeds a proinflammatory epigenetic signature (altered DNA methylation) that predisposes vulnerable women to depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period. As proposed, women with a history of early life adversity are more likely to exhibit higher levels of proinflammatory cytokines and lower levels of oxytocin in response to the demands of pregnancy and new motherhood, both of which are associated with the risk for perinatal depression. The model is designed to guide investigations into the biobehavioral basis for perinatal depression, with emphasis upon the impact of early life adversity. Testing this model will provide a better understanding of maternal depressive risk and improve identification of vulnerable women who would benefit from targeted interventions that can reduce the impact of perinatal depression on maternal–infant health.

Prevalence of antenatal depression and associated factors among pregnant women in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

Background

The World Health Organization identifies depressive disorders as the second leading cause of global disease burden by 2020. However, there is a paucity of studies which examined the associated factors of antenatal depression in low-income countries. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of antenatal depression and associated factors among pregnant women in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was employed among 393 pregnant women attending antenatal care service in Addis Ababa public health centers, Ethiopia from April 12–26, 2012. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was used to detect depressive symptoms. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used in the statistical analysis.

Results

Prevalence of antenatal depression was 24.94 % (95 % CI: 20.85–29.30 %). In the final multivariable model, those pregnant women who have previous history of depression were nearly three times at higher odds of having antenatal depression as compared to pregnant women who have no history of depression [AOR = 2.57(95 % CI: 1.48–4.48 )]. Those pregnant women having unplanned pregnancy were nearly three times at higher odds to develop depression as compared to pregnant women whose pregnancy was planned [AOR = 2.78(95 % CI: 1.59–4.85)]. The odd of developing antenatal depression was 89 % higher in those pregnant women who experienced lack of baby’s father support [AOR = 1.89(95 % CI: 1.06–3.36)]. Education level, community’s support, and partner’s feeling on current pregnancy were not significantly associated factors with antenatal depression in the final multivariable model.

Conclusion

Although clinical confirmation for antenatal depression is not conducted, one quarter of the pregnant women attending antenatal care were depressed in Addis Ababa based on EPDS. Unplanned pregnancy, experiencing lack of baby’s father support and previous history of depression were factors independently associated with antenatal depression. Promotion of family planning and integration of mental health service with existing maternal health care as well as strengthening the referral system among public health centers were the recalled interventions to prevent antenatal depression in Addis Ababa Public Health Centers.

Childhood abuse increases the risk of depressive and anxiety symptoms and history of suicidal behavior in Mexican pregnant women

OBJECTIVE

To explore the relationship between individual and co-occurring childhood sexual, physical, and verbal abuse, prenatal depressive (PDS) and anxiety symptoms (PAS), and history of suicidal behavior (HSB) among Mexican pregnant women at risk of depression.

METHODS

A sample of 357 women screened for PDS was interviewed using the Childhood Experience of Care and Abuse Questionnaire (CECA-Q), the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), the anxiety subscale of the Hopkins Symptoms Checklist (SCL-90), and specific questions on verbal abuse and HSB.

RESULTS

Logistic regression analyses showed that women who had experienced childhood sexual abuse (CSA) were 2.60 times more likely to develop PDS, 2.58 times more likely to develop PAS, and 3.71 times more likely to have HSB. Childhood physical abuse (CPA) increased the risk of PAS (odds ratio [OR] = 2.51) and HSB (OR = 2.62), while childhood verbal abuse (CVA) increased PDS (OR = 1.92). Experiencing multiple abuses increased the risk of PDS (OR = 3.01), PAS (OR = 3.73), and HSB (OR = 13.73).

CONCLUSIONS

Childhood sexual, physical, and verbal abuse, especially when they co-occur, have an impact on PDS and PAS and lifetime HSB. These findings suggest that pregnant women at risk for depression should also be screened for trauma as a risk factor for perinatal psychopathology.

Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function during perinatal depression

Abnormal function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is an important pathological finding in pregnant women exhibiting major depressive disorder. They show high levels of cortisol pro-inflammatory cytokines, hypothalamic-pituitary peptide hormones and catecholamines, along with low dehydroepiandrosterone levels in plasma. During pregnancy, the TH2 balance together with the immune system and placental factors play crucial roles in the development of the fetal allograft to full term. These factors, when altered, may generate a persistent dysfunction of the HPA axis that may lead to an overt transfer of cortisol and toxicity to the fetus at the expense of reduced activity of placental 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2. Epigenetic modifications also may contribute to the dysregulation of the HPA axis. Affective disorders in pregnant women should be taken seriously, and therapies focused on preventing the deleterious effects of stressors should be implemented to promote the welfare of both mother and baby.

Prenatal stress down-regulates Reelin expression by methylation of its promoter and induces adult behavioral impairments in rats

Prenatal stress causes predisposition to cognitive and emotional disturbances and is a risk factor towards the development of neuropsychiatric conditions like depression, bipolar disorders and schizophrenia. The extracellular protein Reelin, expressed by Cajal-Retzius cells during cortical development, plays critical roles on cortical lamination and synaptic maturation, and its deregulation has been associated with maladaptive conditions. In the present study, we address the effect of prenatal restraint stress (PNS) upon Reelin expression and signaling in pregnant rats during the last 10 days of pregnancy. Animals from one group, including control and PNS exposed fetuses, were sacrificed and analyzed using immunohistochemical, biochemical, cell biology and molecular biology approaches. We scored changes in the expression of Reelin, its signaling pathway and in the methylation of its promoter. A second group included control and PNS exposed animals maintained until young adulthood for behavioral studies. Using the optical dissector, we show decreased numbers of Reelin-positive neurons in cortical layer I of PNS exposed animals. In addition, neurons from PNS exposed animals display decreased Reelin expression that is paralleled by changes in components of the Reelin-signaling cascade, both in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, PNS induced changes in the DNA methylation levels of the Reelin promoter in culture and in histological samples. PNS adult rats display excessive spontaneous locomotor activity, high anxiety levels and problems of learning and memory consolidation. No significant visuo-spatial memory impairment was detected on the Morris water maze. These results highlight the effects of prenatal stress on the Cajal-Retzius neuronal population, and the persistence of behavioral consequences using this treatment in adults, thereby supporting a relevant role of PNS in the genesis of neuropsychiatric diseases. We also propose an in vitro model that can yield new insights on the molecular mechanisms behind the effects of prenatal stress.

Psychosocial factors of antenatal anxiety and depression in Pakistan: is social support a mediator?

INTRODUCTION

Pregnancy is generally viewed as a time of fulfillment and joy; however, for many women it can be a stressful event. In South Asia it is associated with cultural stigmas revolving around gender discrimination, abnormal births and genetic abnormalities.

METHODOLOGY

This cross-sectional study was done at four teaching hospitals in Lahore from February, 2014 to June, 2014. A total of 500 pregnant women seen at hospital obstetrics and gynecology departments were interviewed with a questionnaire consisting of three sections: demographics, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Social Provisions Scale (SPS). Pearson's chi-squared test, bivariate correlations and multiple linear regression were used to analyze associations between the independent variables and scores on the HADS and SPS.

RESULTS

Mean age among the 500 respondents was 27.41 years (5.65). Anxiety levels in participants were categorized as normal (145 women, 29%), borderline (110, 22%) or anxious (245, 49%). Depression levels were categorized as normal (218 women, 43.6%), borderline (123, 24.6%) or depressed (159, 31.8%). Inferential analysis revealed that higher HADS scores were significantly associated with lower scores on the SPS, rural background, history of harassment, abortion, cesarean delivery and unplanned pregnancies (P < .05). Social support (SPS score) mediated the relationship between the total number of children, gender of previous children and HADS score. Women with more daughters were significantly more likely to score higher on the HADS and lower on the SPS, whereas higher numbers of sons were associated with the opposite trends in the scores (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Because of the predominantly patriarchal sociocultural context in Pakistan, the predictors of antenatal anxiety and depression may differ from those in developed countries. We therefore suggest that interventions designed and implemented to reduce antenatal anxiety and depression should take into account these unique factors.

A prospective cohort study of depression in pregnancy, prevalence and risk factors in a multi-ethnic population

BACKGROUND

Depression in pregnancy increases the risk of complications for mother and child. Few studies are done in ethnic minorities. We wanted to identify the prevalence of depression in pregnancy and associations with ethnicity and other risk factors.

METHOD

Population-based, prospective cohort of 749 pregnant women (59% ethnic minorities) attending primary antenatal care during early pregnancy in Oslo between 2008 and 2010. Questionnaires covering demographics, health problems and psychosocial factors were collected through interviews. Depression in pregnancy was defined as a sum score ≥ 10 by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) at gestational week 28.

RESULTS

The crude prevalence of depression was; Western Europeans: 8.6% (95% CI: 5.45-11.75), Middle Easterners: 19.5% (12.19-26.81), South Asians: 17.5% (12.08-22.92), and other groups: 11.3% (6.09-16.51). Median EPDS score was 6 in Middle Easterners and 3 in all other groups. Middle Easterners (OR = 2.81; 95% CI (1.29-6.15)) and South Asians (2.72 (1.35-5.48)) had significantly higher risk for depression than other minorities and Western Europeans in logistic regression models. When adjusting for socioeconomic position and family structure, the ORs were reduced by 16-18% (OR = 2.44 (1.07-5.57) and 2.25 (1.07-4.72). Other significant risk factors were the number of recent adverse life events, self-reported history of depression and poor subjective health three months before conception.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of depression in pregnancy was higher in ethnic minorities from the Middle East and South Asia. The increased risk persisted after adjustment for risk factors.

Prevalence and Predictors of Depressive Symptoms in Pregnant African American Women

African American women may be especially vulnerable to antepartum depression, a major health concern during pregnancy. This study investigated the prevalence and predictors of depressive symptoms in a sample of African American women who were between 14-17 weeks pregnant, a timeframe that is typically thought to be a time of general well-being. Two-thirds reported a CES-D score ≥ 16 indicative of depressive symptomatology. Age, perceived stress (as measured by the Perceived Stress Scale [PSS]), and anxiety (as measured by the State Trait Anxiety Inventory [STAI]) predicted depressive symptoms; the interaction between PSS and STAI scores was also a significant predictor. Our study findings suggest that early identification of stress and anxiety, in addition to depressive symptoms, is vital for intervention with this group.

Depression and Anxiety in Women During Pregnancy in Slovenia

Objective

The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of elevated depression and anxiety among pregnant women and to examine its correlation with medical complications and socio-demographic characteristics.

Methods

The study is based on a cross-sectional design of a sample of 348 women in three trimesters of pregnancy who received routine obstetrical care at the University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. The responding women filled out a questionnaire on socio-demographic variables, the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale CES-D and the State Trait Anxiety Inventory STAI.

Results

21.7% of pregnant women were identified as suffering from elevated depression symptomatology, 15.7% reported high state anxiety and 12.5% had high trait anxiety. No significant differences in depression and anxiety across pregnancy trimesters were found. The women who have suffered from health complications during previous pregnancies showed higher state anxiety; those experiencing complications during their current pregnancy reported more intense symptoms of depression and of state and trait anxiety than women free of complications. Less educated, lower income and mothers of many children in the third pregnancy trimester reported more intensive symptoms of depression and trait anxiety.

Conclusions

Elevated depression and anxiety are frequent among pregnant women. The results draw attention to the need for early detection and treatment of depression and anxiety during pregnancy.

Maladaptive family dysfunction and parental death as risk markers of childhood abuse in women

This study aims to examine the prevalence and characteristics of physical, emotional and sexual childhood abuse. It also examines whether other non-abuse types of childhood adversities related to maladaptive family functioning and separations during childhood can be used as markers for the presence of childhood abuse. Participants (N = 237) were women at 2-3 days after delivery that completed the Spanish-validated version of the Early Trauma Inventory Self Report (ETI-SR; Bremner, Bolus, & Mayer, 2007; Plaza et al., 2011), designed to assess the presence of childhood adversities. Results show that 29% of the women had experienced some type of childhood abuse, and 10% more than one type. Logistic regression analyses indicate that childhood parental death is a risk marker for childhood emotional abuse (OR: 3.77; 95% CI: 1.327-10.755; p <.013), childhood parental substance abuse is a risk marker for childhood sexual (OR: 3.72; 95% CI: 1.480-9.303; p < .005) and physical abuse (OR: 2.610; 95% CI: 1.000-6.812; p < .05) and that childhood family mental illness is a risk marker for childhood emotional (OR: 2.95; 95% CI: 1.175-7.441; p < .021) and sexual abuse (OR: 2.55; 95% CI: 1.168-5.580; p < .019). The high prevalence of childhood abuse indicates a need for assessment during the perinatal period. Screening for childhood family mental illness, parental substance abuse, and parental death - all identified risk factors for reporting childhood abuse - can help to identify women that should be assessed specifically regarding abuse.