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Khademi K, Kaveh MH. Social support as a coping resource for psychosocial conditions in postpartum period: a systematic review and logic framework. BMC Psychol 2024; 12:301. [PMID: 38807228 PMCID: PMC11131291 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-024-01814-6] [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] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This review seeks to examine the current state of postpartum social support and psychosocial conditions among women around the world, as well as explore the relationship between these factors. Additionally, it aims to propose a logical framework for enhancing postpartum social support and psychosocial conditions in this population. METHODS Following the development of a search strategy, two databases, PubMed and Science Direct, were searched for studies published between January 2019 and May 2023. The search was conducted throughout the entire month of May 2023. The risk of bias in the included cross-sectional studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale, which was adapted for this specific study design. To determine if the main objective of the cross-sectional studies was to investigate the relationship between social support and postpartum psychosocial conditions, a review was conducted based on the AMSTAR checklist, PRISMA checklist and PRISMA flow diagram. Data extraction was performed with the consensus of two authors, and a narrative synthesis approach was chosen for data synthesis, following the guidelines provided by the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination (CRD). RESULTS Eleven cross-sectional studies were included in the final analysis. Our findings revealed that all reviewed studies provided evidence of a positive association between social support and healthy psychosocial conditions in postpartum period. However, due to the absence of standardized measurement indicators to identify and compare the outcomes of various studies, there was a need to develop a conceptual framework that could enhance our understanding of the postpartum psychosocial condition including anxiety, depression, unfavorable quality of life and social support status up to 24 month after child birth. This framework aimed to incorporate childbirth and motherhood as "stressful events," while considering social support as a crucial "coping resource." Furthermore, it acknowledged empowerment, help-seeking behavior, and peer support as important "coping actions," alongside implementing client-centered interventions. Lastly, it recognized postpartum mental health and optimal quality of life as significant "effects" of these factors. CONCLUSIONS The proposed conceptual framework could define postpartum women's health as "the ability to adapt and self-manage."
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadijeh Khademi
- Student Research Committee, Department of Health Promotion, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, 71536-75541, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Hossein Kaveh
- Research Center for Health Sciences, Department of Health Promotion, School of Health, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Mabetha K, Soepnel LM, Klingberg S, Mabena G, Motlhatlhedi M, Norris SA, Draper CE. Young women's social support networks during pregnancy in Soweto, South Africa. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2024; 16:e1-e11. [PMID: 38708725 PMCID: PMC11079395 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v16i1.4146] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although studies from high-income countries have examined social support during pregnancy, it remains unclear what type of support is received by expectant mothers from low- and middle-income country settings. AIM To explore young women's social support networks during pregnancy in Soweto, South Africa. SETTING This study was undertaken in an academic hospital based in the Southwestern Townships (Soweto), Johannesburg, in Gauteng province, South Africa. METHODS An exploratory descriptive qualitative approach was employed. Eighteen (18) young pregnant women were recruited using a purposive sampling approach. In-depth interviews were conducted, and data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS Analysis of the data resulted in the development of two superordinate themes namely; (1) relationships during pregnancy and (2) network involvement. Involvement of the various social networks contributed greatly to the young women having a greater sense of potential parental efficacy and increased acceptance of their pregnancies. Pregnant women who receive sufficient social support from immediate networks have increased potential to embrace and give attention to pregnancy-related changes. CONCLUSION Focusing on less-examined characteristics that could enhance pregnant women's health could help in the reduction of deaths that arise because of pregnancy complications and contribute in globally accelerating increased accessibility to adequate reproductive health.Contribution: This study's findings emphasise the necessity for policymakers and healthcare providers to educate the broader community about the importance of partner, family and peer support to minimise risks that may affect pregnancy care and wellbeing of mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khuthala Mabetha
- SAMRC/Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg.
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Atuesinya Azusong E, Teye-Kwadjo E, Asante KO. Effect of childbirth experience on the psychological well-being of postpartum women in Accra, Ghana. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2024:1-22. [PMID: 38511351 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2024.2329721] [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: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women's experience of childbirth can affect their mental health outcomes, many years after the delivery. Consequently, the World Health Organisation has provided recommendations to ensure women receive positive birth experiences during intrapartum care. Yet, negative childbirth experience is widespread in Ghana. This study examined the association between women's childbirth experience (i.e. own capacity, professional support, perceived safety, and participation) and their psychological well-being, and whether or not perceived social support and resilience moderate the childbirth experience - psychological well-being relationship. METHODS Mothers (N = 117) who had given birth in the past month and were receiving postnatal care at two health facilities in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana provided the data for the current analysis. Data were collected using the Childbirth Experience Questionnaire, WHO-5 Well-Being Index, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and Brief Resilience Scale. Hierarchical Linear Regression was used to analyse the data. RESULTS Results showed that childbirth experience domains of own capacity and perceived safety were significantly, and positively associated with psychological well-being. The domains of professional support and participation were not associated with psychological well-being in this sample. Perceived social support and resilience did not moderate the association between childbirth experience and psychological well-being. CONCLUSION The results suggest that efforts by birth practitioners (i.e. midwives, obstetricians, and gynaecologists) to give Ghanaian women positive childbirth experiences through the encouragement of personal control over the birthing process as well as ensuring the safety of the birthing procedure and environment would provide women with optimal mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Enoch Teye-Kwadjo
- Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Industrial Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, South Africa
| | - Kwaku Oppong Asante
- Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Psychology, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
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Al-Mutawtah M, Campbell E, Kubis HP, Erjavec M. Women's experiences of social support during pregnancy: a qualitative systematic review. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:782. [PMID: 37950165 PMCID: PMC10638802 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-06089-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social support during pregnancy can alleviate emotional and physical pressures, improving the well-being of mother and child. Understanding women's lived experiences and perceptions of social support during pregnancy is imperative to better support women. This systematic review explores and synthesises the qualitative research on women's experiences of social support during pregnancy. METHODS Databases PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, APA PsycInfo and Scopus were searched with no year limit. Eligible studies included pregnant women or women who were up to one year postpartum and were assessed on their experiences of social support during pregnancy. The data were synthesised using the thematic synthesis approach. RESULTS Fourteen studies were included with data from 571 participating women across ten countries; two studies used focus groups, and 12 used interviews to collect their data. Four main themes were developed ('a variety of emotional support', 'tangible and intangible instrumental support', 'traditional rituals and spiritual support', and 'the all-encompassing natal home'), and six sub-themes ('female network connections', 'care and affection from the husband', 'dissatisfaction with relationships', 'financial support from the husband and family', 'practical support from family and friends', 'health information support'). CONCLUSIONS This systematic review sheds light on women's experiences of social support during pregnancy. The results indicate a broad variety of emotional support experienced and valued by pregnant women from different sources. Additionally, women expressed satisfaction and dissatisfaction with tangible and intangible support forms. It was also highlighted that spirituality played an essential role in reducing stress and offering coping mechanisms for some, whereas spirituality increased stress levels for others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Al-Mutawtah
- School of Human and Behavioural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, UK.
- Community Medicine- Clinical Psychology, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait.
| | - Emma Campbell
- School of Human and Behavioural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Hans-Peter Kubis
- School of Human and Behavioural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Mihela Erjavec
- School of Human and Behavioural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
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Asselmann E, Garthus-Niegel S, Martini J. How research on personality development can improve our understanding of perinatal adjustment. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2023; 41:485-487. [PMID: 37783226 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2023.2242148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Asselmann
- Department of Psychology, Institute for Mental Health and Behavioral Medicine, HMU Health and Medical University, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Susan Garthus-Niegel
- Institute for Systems Medicine (ISM) and Faculty of Medicine, Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Department of Childhood and Families, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Julia Martini
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden
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Spinoni M, Singh Solorzano C, Grano C. The impact of prepartum pandemic-related perceived stress on anxiety symptoms in the postpartum: The role of perceived childbirth experiences. J Anxiety Disord 2023; 99:102762. [PMID: 37647729 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2023.102762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Postpartum anxiety is a significant component of postpartum maternal distress and is related to adverse outcomes for both the mother and the child. Although previous research reported higher anxiety symptoms in pregnant women during the Covid-19 pandemic, no studies evaluated the negative impact of pandemic-related perceived stress on postpartum anxiety symptomatology over time. This study aimed to examine the impact of prepartum pandemic-related stress on postpartum anxiety and to evaluate the role of subjective labor and delivery experiences on this relationship. A sample of 172 pregnant women completed an online questionnaire evaluating pandemic-related perceived stress and anxiety symptoms in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. In the postpartum, they completed a second questionnaire retrospectively evaluating their childbirth experience and assessing anxiety symptoms in the last two weeks. A mediation analysis was conducted. Prepartum pandemic-related perceived stress was significantly associated with postpartum anxiety symptoms. Moreover, childbirth experiences significantly and partially mediated this relationship. Findings highlighted the importance of evaluating perceived stress levels during pregnancy to prevent negative consequences on postpartum mental health. Clinicians need to foster better management of factors included in the childbirth experience that may potentially trigger or counteract anxiety risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Spinoni
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Dei Marsi, 78, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Caterina Grano
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Dei Marsi, 78, 00185 Rome, Italy.
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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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Fields K, Ciciolla L, Addante S, Erato G, Quigley A, Mullins-Sweatt SN, Shreffler KM. Maternal Adverse Childhood Experiences and Perceived Stress During Pregnancy: The Role of Personality. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2023; 16:649-657. [PMID: 37593066 PMCID: PMC10427598 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-023-00525-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
This study explores the role of personality traits in the relationship between maternal adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and perceived stress during pregnancy. Pregnancy can be a stressful time for new mothers. ACEs have been associated with elevated levels of pregnancy stress, and have also been linked to the Big Five dimensions of personality, including a positive association with neuroticism. The Big Five have also been associated with perceptions of stress, and there is evidence to suggest that personality may be one mechanism through which ACEs disrupt psychosocial functioning during pregnancy. The sample included 177 pregnant girls and women (ages 15-40) from two prenatal clinics serving diverse and low-income patients. Participants completed online questionnaires on perceived stress, ACEs, and the Ten Item Personality Inventory. Results of a path analysis and test of mediation showed significant indirect effects from ACEs to perceived stress mediated independently by neuroticism and conscientiousness. Mothers with high ACEs reported higher neuroticism and lower conscientiousness, and in turn, experienced high levels of perceived stress during pregnancy. High neuroticism and low conscientiousness associated with early adverse experiences increase the risk for perceived stress during pregnancy. Screening for ACEs may help identify mothers at risk for perinatal stress and provide the opportunity for additional support for maternal emotion regulation and mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Fields
- Department of Psychology, Oklahoma State University, 116 Psychology Building, Stillwater, OK 74078 USA
| | - Lucia Ciciolla
- Department of Psychology, Oklahoma State University, 116 Psychology Building, Stillwater, OK 74078 USA
| | - Samantha Addante
- Department of Psychology, Oklahoma State University, 116 Psychology Building, Stillwater, OK 74078 USA
| | - Gina Erato
- Department of Psychology, Oklahoma State University, 116 Psychology Building, Stillwater, OK 74078 USA
| | - Ashley Quigley
- Department of Psychology, Oklahoma State University, 116 Psychology Building, Stillwater, OK 74078 USA
| | | | - Karina M. Shreffler
- Department of Child and Family Health Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK USA
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Kim SJ, Aye YM, Panyarachun D, Hong SA, Chang YS. Social support for postpartum women and associated factors including online support to reduce stress and depression amidst COVID-19: Results of an online survey in Thailand. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289250. [PMID: 37498895 PMCID: PMC10374076 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social support for postpartum women helps mothers to recover from childbirth and fosters healthy infant development. However, the impacts of reduced interpersonal interactions inflicted by the COVID-19 outbreak on available social support for postpartum women have received little attention. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the levels of social support provided to postpartum women and associated factors in Thailand during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to October 2021 using an anonymous online questionnaire. The responses of 840 eligible women up to six months postpartum in Thailand were obtained. The maternity social support scale was used to measure social support. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyse the factors associated with social support among postpartum women. RESULTS About 57% of women reported to receive high support. Women in the high social support group were more likely to be married (aOR:2.70; 95% CI:1.57-4.66), have a university education or above (1.88; 1.35-2.64), have an intended pregnancy (2.06; 1.34-3.16), good health (2.01; 1.44-2.81), good sleep quality (1.62; 1.14-2.31), receive counsel from peers or family (1.56; 1.13-2.16), and use internet or social media to reduce stress and depression (1.51; 1.08-2.11). Meanwhile, women in the high social support group were significantly less likely to feed complementary foods to infants within 24 hours of completing the survey (0.28; 0.15-0.52). CONCLUSIONS The results of this study indicated that more than half of the women reported high support and illustrated the important role played by family, peers, and professionals as well as online and remote channels in providing postpartum informational and emotional support during the pandemic. Online platforms and remote support may be considered to provide social support to postpartum women during a pandemic such as COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Jung Kim
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yin Min Aye
- ASEAN Institute for Health Development, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Danipa Panyarachun
- Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Seo Ah Hong
- ASEAN Institute for Health Development, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
- Institute for Health and Society, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yan-Shing Chang
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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Terrone G, Bianciardi E, Fontana A, Pinci C, Castellani G, Sferra I, Forastiere A, Merlo M, Marinucci E, Rinaldi F, Falanga M, Pucci D, Siracusano A, Niolu C. Psychological Characteristics of Women with Perinatal Depression Who Require Psychiatric Support during Pregnancy or Postpartum: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20085508. [PMID: 37107790 PMCID: PMC10138626 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20085508] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Antenatal depression may be distinct from postpartum depression in terms of prevalence, severity of symptoms, comorbidities, prognosis, and risk factors. Although risk factors for perinatal depression have been identified, it is unclear whether there are differences in the onset of perinatal depression (PND). This study explored the characteristics of women requiring mental health support during pregnancy or postpartum. A sample of 170 women (58% in pregnancy; 42% postpartum) who contacted the SOS-MAMMA outpatient clinic was recruited. Clinical data sheets and self-report questionnaires (EPDS, LTE-Q, BIG FIVE; ECR; BSQ; STICSA) were administered, hypothesizing possible risk factors, such as personality traits, stressful life events, body dissatisfaction, attachment style, and anxiety. Hierarchical regression models were carried out in the pregnancy (F10;36 = 8.075, p < 0.001, adjR2 = 0.877) and postpartum groups (F10;38 = 3.082, p < 0.05, adjR2 = 0.809). Recent stressful life events and conscientiousness were associated with depression in both the pregnant (29.3%, 25.5% of variance) and postpartum groups (23.8%, 20.7% of variance). In pregnant women, "openness" (11.6%), body dissatisfaction (10.2%), and anxiety (7.1%) symptoms were predictive of depression. In the postpartum group, "neuroticism" (13.8%) and insecure romantic attachment dimensions (13.4%; 9.2%) were the strongest predictors. Perinatal psychological interventions should consider the differences between mothers with depression during pregnancy and postpartum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Terrone
- Department of History, Cultural Heritage, Education and Society, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela Bianciardi
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Andrea Fontana
- Department of Human Sciences, Lumsa University of Rome, 00193 Rome, Italy
| | - Carolina Pinci
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Castellani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Irene Sferra
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Forastiere
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Mattia Merlo
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Elicio Marinucci
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Fiamma Rinaldi
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Marina Falanga
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Pucci
- Department of Mental Health and Pathological Addictions (DSMDP), ASL ROMA 5, 00019 Tivoli (Rome), Italy
| | - Alberto Siracusano
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Niolu
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
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Schonfeld IS, Prytherch T, Cropley M, Bianchi R. The Pandemic Anxiety Inventory: A validation study. J Health Psychol 2023; 28:216-229. [PMID: 35787177 PMCID: PMC9982399 DOI: 10.1177/13591053221106129] [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] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The Pandemic Anxiety Inventory (PAI) assesses anxiety symptoms individuals attribute to the presence of a pandemic. We conducted this study of 379 British adults during the COVID-19 pandemic and found that the PAI exhibited excellent reliability and solid criterion validity. Pandemic anxiety was associated with reduced social support, anticipated life changes, financial strain, job loss, economic insecurity, and the hospitalization or death of a close friend or relative. Using correlational and bifactor analyses, we found that the PAI demonstrated solid convergent and discriminant validity. The findings suggest that the PAI can be used in research and clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irvin Sam Schonfeld
- The City College and the Graduate Center of the City University of New York, USA
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Rabinowitz EP, Kutash LA, Richeson AL, Sayer MA, Samii MR, Delahanty DL. Depression, Anxiety, and Stress in Pregnancy and Postpartum: A Longitudinal Study During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Midwifery 2023; 121:103655. [PMID: 36972668 PMCID: PMC10023202 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2023.103655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress in pregnant women are generally highest in the first trimester and then decrease throughout pregnancy, reaching their lowest point in the postpartum period. Pregnant women are a high-risk population for mortality and mental health symptoms due to COVID-19. However, the extent to which the chronic stress of the COVID-19 pandemic alters the trajectory of depression, anxiety and stress symptoms in pregnant/postpartum women is unknown. METHODS Women (N=127) who were pregnant or who had given birth less than one month prior were recruited via online advertising during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants were assessed up to three times during the pregnancy and at 1-month postpartum for depression (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale), anxiety, and stress (Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21). Random intercepts models examined symptom change over time as well as predictors of elevated postpartum psychopathology. RESULTS On average, women completed their surveys at 8.5 weeks (first trimester), 21 weeks (second trimester), 32 weeks (third trimester) and 7-weeks postpartum. Women reported mild-moderate levels of depression, anxiety, and stress throughout pregnancy. There was a significant change in symptoms of depression and anxiety over time which was best represented by a quadratic rather than linear trajectory: symptoms increased until week 23-25 and then decreased. Stress levels remained consistently elevated over time. Higher symptom levels at 1-month postpartum were predicted by younger age, lower social support, and worry about going to a healthcare facility. Change in routine due to COVID-19 was not predictive of symptom trajectory from pregnancy to postpartum. CONCLUSIONS During COVID-19, symptoms of depression and anxiety increased from early to mid-pregnancy but then declined slightly while stress levels remained elevated. Observed reductions in symptoms were small. Given the substantial persistent impact of perinatal distress and poor mental health on maternal and fetal health, providers should be aware of heightened levels of these symptoms in pregnant women during large-scale external health stressors such as COVID-19, and should implement screening procedures to identify and appropriately intervene with at-risk women.
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Lazarides C, Moog NK, Verner G, Voelkle MC, Henrich W, Heim CM, Braun T, Wadhwa PD, Buss C, Entringer S. The association between history of prenatal loss and maternal psychological state in a subsequent pregnancy: an ecological momentary assessment (EMA) study. Psychol Med 2023; 53:855-865. [PMID: 34127159 PMCID: PMC9975992 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291721002221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal loss which occurs in approximately 20% of pregnancies represents a well-established risk factor for anxiety and affective disorders. In the current study, we examined whether a history of prenatal loss is associated with a subsequent pregnancy with maternal psychological state using ecological momentary assessment (EMA)-based measures of pregnancy-specific distress and mood in everyday life. METHOD This study was conducted in a cohort of N = 155 healthy pregnant women, of which N = 40 had a history of prenatal loss. An EMA protocol was used in early and late pregnancy to collect repeated measures of maternal stress and mood, on average eight times per day over a consecutive 4-day period. The association between a history of prenatal loss and psychological state was estimated using linear mixed models. RESULTS Compared to women who had not experienced a prior prenatal loss, women with a history of prenatal loss reported higher levels of pregnancy-specific distress in early as well as late pregnancy and also were more nervous and tired. Furthermore, in the comparison group pregnancy-specific distress decreased and mood improved from early to late pregnancy, whereas these changes across pregnancy were not evident in women in the prenatal loss group. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that prenatal loss in a prior pregnancy is associated with a subsequent pregnancy with significantly higher stress and impaired mood levels in everyday life across gestation. These findings have important implications for designing EMA-based ambulatory, personalized interventions to reduce stress during pregnancy in this high-risk group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Lazarides
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nora K. Moog
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Glenn Verner
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Manuel C. Voelkle
- Faculty of Life Science, Department of Psychology, Psychological Research Methods, Humboldt-University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Henrich
- Department of Obstetrics, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christine M. Heim
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Thorsten Braun
- Department of Obstetrics, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Pathik D. Wadhwa
- Development, Health and Disease Research Program, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Claudia Buss
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Development, Health and Disease Research Program, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Sonja Entringer
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Development, Health and Disease Research Program, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
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14
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Yu H, He J, Li K, Qi W, Lin J, Szumilewicz A. Quality assessment of pre- and postnatal nutrition and exercise mobile applications in the United States and China. Front Nutr 2023; 9:942331. [PMID: 36698473 PMCID: PMC9868741 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.942331] [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: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mobile applications (apps) are becoming increasingly prevalent as tools for improving maternal health behaviors. However, the recently updated content and quality of these apps remain unknown. This research investigated the fundamental characteristics, functional modules, and overall quality of maternal apps available in the United States and China to reveal critical nutrition and physical activity gaps. Methods A systematic search was performed in Android and iOS app stores (China and the United States). Apps were eligible if they targeted pregnant or postpartum women, focused on nutrition or physical activity, and had interfaces in English or Chinese. The basic characteristics, functional modules, and overall quality of the apps were evaluated, and differences between apps available in China or the United States were determined using analysis of variance and chi-square tests. Pearson correlations were utilized to investigate links between objective quality and user rating. Results A total of 65 maternity-related nutrition and physical activity apps (34 from China and 31 from the United States) were eligible. Among them, 68% (21/31) of US apps and 56% (19/34) of Chinese apps did not provide supporting evidence for their content. A greater number of Chinese apps provided app-based general education modules, namely food nutrition knowledge (n = 0, 0% in the United States vs. n = 30, 88.2% in China). Meanwhile, a greater number of US apps provided exercise modules, namely pregnancy yoga (n = 21, 67.7% in the United States vs. n = 2, 5.9% in China). The overall app quality rating in the United States was lower than it was in China (mean: 3.5, SD: 0.6 in China vs. mean: 3.4, SD: 0.7 in the United States). There was no relationship between the overall app quality rating and the user rating in either country (rho = 0.11 in China and rho = -0.13 in the United States). Conclusion The characteristics and functional modules of in-store apps for maternal nutrition and physical activity differed between the United States and China. Both countries' apps, especially Chinese apps, lacked evidence-based information, and there was no correlation between app quality and user rating. The results therefore suggest that user ratings cannot be used as an objective indicator of app quality and that it is necessary to improve the empirical basis and credibility of apps in both countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongli Yu
- Department of Sport, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdańsk, Poland,Jiuling Primary School, Mianyang, Sichuan, China,*Correspondence: Hongli Yu,
| | - Juan He
- Department of Sport, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Keqiang Li
- Department of Sport, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Wen Qi
- Department of Sport, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Jiahui Lin
- Football Academy, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Anna Szumilewicz
- Department of Sport, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdańsk, Poland
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15
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Leźnicka K, Pawlak M, Gasiorowska A, Jażdżewska A, Wilczyńska D, Godlewska P, Lubkowska A, Chudecka M, Maciejewska-Skrendo A, Santos-Rocha R, Szumilewicz A. Individual Characteristics and Pain Sensitivity during Pregnancy-A Cross-Sectional Study in Pregnant and Non-Pregnant Women. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14151. [PMID: 36361034 PMCID: PMC9657085 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114151] [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: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to describe the characteristics and factors related to pain perception in pregnant women, such as optimism, personality traits, and fear of developing COVID-19 consequences. Sixty-six pregnant women aged 23 to 42 years participated in the study, and the comparison group consisted of n = 59 non-pregnant female students aged 19 to 23 years. Pressure pain threshold and pain tolerance were measured with an algometer. To assess psychological characteristics, the Life-Orientation Test-Revised was used to assess optimism, the Fear of COVID-19 Scale was used to assess COVID-19 anxiety, and the Ten-Item Personality Inventory was applied to assess personality traits in a five-factor model. The main results of the study showed that pain tolerance was significantly lower in both dominant and non-dominant hand pregnant women than in the comparison group. The studied pregnant women had higher scores for conscientiousness, fear of COVID-19, and optimism compared with the non-pregnant women. Regression analysis showed that the variability in pain perception among pregnant women could not be explained by individual differences in personality traits, optimism, and fear of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Leźnicka
- Faculty of Physical Education, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, K. Górskiego St. 1, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Maciej Pawlak
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Poznan University of Physical Education, Królowej Jadwigi St. 27/39, 61-871 Poznań, Poland
| | - Agata Gasiorowska
- Faculty of Psychology in Wroclaw, SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Ostrowskiego 30b, 54-238 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Jażdżewska
- Faculty of Physical Education, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, K. Górskiego St. 1, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Dominika Wilczyńska
- Faculty of Physical Education, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, K. Górskiego St. 1, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Paulina Godlewska
- Faculty of Physical Education, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, K. Górskiego St. 1, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Anna Lubkowska
- Department of Functional Diagnostics and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Pomeranian Medical University, 54 Żołnierska St., 71-210 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Monika Chudecka
- Institute of Physical Culture Sciences, University of Szczecin, 40B Piastów St., 71-065 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Maciejewska-Skrendo
- Faculty of Physical Education, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, K. Górskiego St. 1, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland
- Institute of Physical Culture Sciences, University of Szczecin, 40B Piastów St., 71-065 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Rita Santos-Rocha
- ESDRM Sport Sciences School of Rio Maior, Polytechnic Institute of Santarém, 2040-413 Rio Maior, Portugal
- CIPER Interdisciplinary Centre for the Study of Human Performance, Faculty of Human Kinetics, University of Lisbon, 1649-004 Lisbona, Portugal
| | - Anna Szumilewicz
- Faculty of Physical Education, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, K. Górskiego St. 1, 80-336 Gdansk, Poland
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16
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Wickramaratne PJ, Yangchen T, Lepow L, Patra BG, Glicksburg B, Talati A, Adekkanattu P, Ryu E, Biernacka JM, Charney A, Mann JJ, Pathak J, Olfson M, Weissman MM. Social connectedness as a determinant of mental health: A scoping review. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275004. [PMID: 36228007 PMCID: PMC9560615 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Public health and epidemiologic research have established that social connectedness promotes overall health. Yet there have been no recent reviews of findings from research examining social connectedness as a determinant of mental health. The goal of this review was to evaluate recent longitudinal research probing the effects of social connectedness on depression and anxiety symptoms and diagnoses in the general population. A scoping review was performed of PubMed and PsychInfo databases from January 2015 to December 2021 following PRISMA-ScR guidelines using a defined search strategy. The search yielded 66 unique studies. In research with other than pregnant women, 83% (19 of 23) studies reported that social support benefited symptoms of depression with the remaining 17% (5 of 23) reporting minimal or no evidence that lower levels of social support predict depression at follow-up. In research with pregnant women, 83% (24 of 29 studies) found that low social support increased postpartum depressive symptoms. Among 8 of 9 studies that focused on loneliness, feeling lonely at baseline was related to adverse outcomes at follow-up including higher risks of major depressive disorder, depressive symptom severity, generalized anxiety disorder, and lower levels of physical activity. In 5 of 8 reports, smaller social network size predicted depressive symptoms or disorder at follow-up. In summary, most recent relevant longitudinal studies have demonstrated that social connectedness protects adults in the general population from depressive symptoms and disorders. The results, which were largely consistent across settings, exposure measures, and populations, support efforts to improve clinical detection of high-risk patients, including adults with low social support and elevated loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya J. Wickramaratne
- Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States of America
- Division of Translational Epidemiology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Tenzin Yangchen
- Division of Translational Epidemiology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Lauren Lepow
- Departments of Psychiatry and Genetics & Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Braja G. Patra
- Division of Health Informatics, Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Benjamin Glicksburg
- Departments of Psychiatry and Genetics & Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Ardesheer Talati
- Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States of America
- Division of Translational Epidemiology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Prakash Adekkanattu
- Department of Information Technologies and Services, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Euijung Ryu
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America
| | - Joanna M. Biernacka
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America
| | - Alexander Charney
- Departments of Psychiatry and Genetics & Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - J. John Mann
- Division of Molecular Imaging and the Neuropathology, Departments of Psychiatry and Radiology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Jyotishman Pathak
- Division of Health Informatics, Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Mark Olfson
- Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Myrna M. Weissman
- Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States of America
- Division of Translational Epidemiology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, United States of America
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17
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Abdi S, Faramarzi M, Bouzari Z, Chehrazi M, Esfandyari M. Association between social support and pregnancy stress: a cross-sectional study of neighbors’ interactions. J Egypt Public Health Assoc 2022; 97:15. [PMID: 36089617 PMCID: PMC9464484 DOI: 10.1186/s42506-022-00113-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Pregnancy is associated with substantial stressful experiences. There are controversies concerning the positive and negative roles of social support during pregnancy. This research aimed to study the association of social support with the pregnancy-related stress.
Methods
In the current cross-sectional research, 200 pregnant women were recruited through convenience sampling from two teaching hospitals affiliated with Babol University of Medical Sciences and a private obstetric clinic. The women completed two self-reported questionnaires during prenatal care appointments. The questionnaires included the Revised Prenatal Distress Questionnaire (NuPDQ) and Social Support Questionnaire (SSQ).
Results
A significantly positive association was observed between the social support of neighbors and the total score of pregnancy stress (P<0.001), as well as the scores of its four subscales, namely medical problems (P<0.001), parenting (P=0.25), infant health stress (P=0.006), and pregnancy symptoms (P=0.001). Based on the linear regression models, the social support of neighbors was significantly related to the medical problem-associated stress in pregnant women (β = 0.147, 95% CI: 0.14 to 0.62, p = 0.047), pregnancy symptom (β = 0.203, 95% CI: −0.01 to 0.327, p = 0.017), and fear of childbirth (β = 0.164, 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.38, p = 0.046). Furthermore, the neighbors’ social support (β = 0.172, 95% CI: 0.02 to 0.32, p = 0.04) and the total score of social support (β = 0.155, 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.304, p = 0.046) were significantly associated with the total score of pregnancy stress.
Conclusions
Neighbors’ support, as a component of social support, was found to be significantly related to pregnancy stress. This study recommends that healthcare providers consider the positive and negative impacts of social support during the pregnancy period.
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18
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Asselmann E, Specht J. Personality growth after relationship losses: Changes of perceived control in the years around separation, divorce, and the death of a partner. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0268598. [PMID: 35921259 PMCID: PMC9348722 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous research suggests that romantic relationships play a crucial role for perceived control. However, we know surprisingly little about changes in perceived control before and after the end of romantic relationships. Methods Based on data from the Socio-Economic Panel Study (SOEP), a nationally representative household panel study from Germany, we examined changes of perceived control in the years around separation from a partner (N = 1,235), divorce (N = 423), and the death of a partner (N = 437). Results Multilevel analyses revealed that external control beliefs were higher in but not beyond the first year after separation from a partner. Internal and total control beliefs increased gradually in the years after separation. Moreover, internal control beliefs were higher in and especially beyond the first year after the death of a partner compared to the years before. No evidence was found that perceived control already changed in the years before relationship losses or in the years around a divorce. Conclusion Taken together, these findings point toward stress-related growth of perceived control after some relationship losses–especially separation and the death of a partner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Asselmann
- Faculty of Health, HMU Health and Medical University, Potsdam, Germany
- Department of Psychology, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jule Specht
- Department of Psychology, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- * E-mail:
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19
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Jones K, Harrison V, Moulds ML, Lazard L. A qualitative analysis of feelings and experiences associated with perinatal distress during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:572. [PMID: 35850668 PMCID: PMC9294838 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04876-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rates of perinatal mental health difficulties (experienced during pregnancy and the 12-months postpartum) increased worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the UK, anxiety and depression were estimated to affect more than half of perinatal women during the first national lockdown. However, little is known about women’s qualitative experiences of distress. This study aimed to extend published quantitative findings resulting from the same data set (Harrison et al., Women Birth xxxx, 2021; Harrison et al., J Reprod Infant Psychol 1–16, 2021) to qualitatively explore: 1) the feelings and symptoms associated with maternal perinatal distress during the COVID-19 pandemic; and 2) the associated sources of distress. Methods As part of an online survey during May 2020, 424 perinatal women responded to an open-ended question regarding a recent experience of distress. Qualitative data were analysed using an initial content analysis, followed by an inductive thematic analysis adopting a realist approach. Data were explored in the context of self-reported perinatal anxiety and depression symptoms. Results Initial content analysis of the data identified twelve distinct categories depicting participants’ feelings and symptoms associated with psychological distress. Despite the high rates of probable depression in the sample, women’s descriptions were more indicative of anxiety and general distress, than of symptoms traditionally related to depression. In terms of the associated psychosocial stressors, a thematic analysis identified five themes: Family wellbeing; Lack of support; Mothering challenges; Loss of control due to COVID-19; and Work and finances. Unsurprisingly given the context, isolation was a common challenge. Additionally, psychological conflict between maternal expectations and the reality of pregnancy and motherhood, loss of autonomy and control, and fears surrounding family health, safety, and wellbeing underlay many of the themes. Conclusions This study presents an array of feelings and symptoms expressed by perinatal mothers which may be useful to consider in relation to perinatal wellbeing. Furthermore, our data highlights several common sources of distress, including multiple COVID-19 specific factors. However, many were related to more general perinatal/maternal experiences. Our findings also point to considerations that may be useful in alleviating distress in pregnancy and early motherhood, including social support, realistic perinatal/maternal expectations, and support for those with perceived perinatal trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Jones
- School of Psychology and Counselling, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK.
| | - Virginia Harrison
- School of Psychology and Counselling, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
| | | | - Lisa Lazard
- School of Psychology and Counselling, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
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20
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Mirtabar SM, Kheirkhah F, Basirat Z, Barat S, Pahlavan Z, Ghadimi R, Gholinia H, Fateri N, ZarinKamar B, Faramarzi M. The role of psychological self‐care on worry of vaccination against COVID‐19 in Iranian pregnant women: A cross‐sectional study. Health Sci Rep 2022; 5:e711. [PMID: 35844827 PMCID: PMC9273940 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Although previous studies have reported some psychological factors to prevent the worry of vaccination against COVID‐19 in pregnant women, the role of psychological self‐care is unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the role of psychological self‐care in pregnant women on the depressive symptoms, psychological distress, and worry of vaccination against COVID‐19. Methods The present cross‐sectional study was conducted during the peak of the Delta variant of COVID‐19 in Babol city (North, Iran) from August to November 2021. Two hundred pregnant women referring to three prenatal clinics completed five questionnaires including; demographic characteristics, Edinburgh postnatal depression scale, psychological self‐care, brief symptom inventory 18, corona disease anxiety scale, and acceptance of vaccination‐3 inventory. Results Pregnant women were in relatively good condition based on psychological self‐care but were not significantly associated with demographic characteristics, such as age, gestational age, educational background, pregnancy, and risk of parity. It was psychological self‐care of pregnant women which negatively predicted the depressive symptoms (β = −0.311, p < 0.001), anxiety symptoms (β = −0.269, p < 0.001), psychological distress (β = −0.269, p < 0.001), and worry of vaccination against COVID‐19 (β = −0.214, p < 0.001). Conclusion Women's psychological self‐care plays a protective role against the depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, psychological distress, and worry of vaccination against COVID‐19 during pregnancy. Clinicians need to pay more attention to the role of psychological self‐care as an important factor in preventing the symptoms of anxiety and depression during regular pregnancy visits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyyedeh M. Mirtabar
- Student Research Committee, Health Research Institute Babol University of Medical Sciences Babol Iran
| | - Farzan Kheirkhah
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Health Research Institute Babol University of Medical Sciences Babol Iran
| | - Zahra Basirat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Infertility and Reproductive Health Research Center, Health Research Institute Babol University of Medical Sciences Babol Iran
| | - Shahnaz Barat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Infertility and Reproductive Health Research Center, Health Research Institute Babol University of Medical Sciences Babol Iran
| | - Zeynab Pahlavan
- Clinical Research Development Unit, Ayatollah Rouhani Hospital, Health Research Institute Babol University of Medical Sciences Babol Iran
| | - Reza Ghadimi
- Social Medicine Department, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Health Research Institute Babol University of Medical Sciences Babol Iran
| | - Hemmat Gholinia
- Department of Biostatistics, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Health Research Institute Babol University of Medical Sciences Babol Iran
| | - Nooshin Fateri
- Clinical Research Development Unit, Rohani Hospital, Health Research Institute Babol University of Medical Sciences Babol Iran
| | - Banafsheh ZarinKamar
- Clinical Research Development Unit, Shahid Yahya Nejad Hospital, Health Research Institute Babol University of Medical Sciences Babol Iran
| | - Mahbobeh Faramarzi
- Department of General Courses, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Health Research Institute Babol University of Medical Sciences Babol Iran
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21
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Shahid A, Malik NI, Shahid F, Ullah I, Abbass Z. Psychosocial predictors of mental health among pregnant women. Perspect Psychiatr Care 2022; 58:1071-1076. [PMID: 34212393 DOI: 10.1111/ppc.12900] [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: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The vulnerability and prevalence of common psychiatric illnesses, that is, anxiety and depression are very high at the time of pregnancy in the socio-cultural context of Southeast Asian low- middle-income countries' pregnant women. However, the issue remains poorly understood despite the fact that pregnancy can be stressful for women, their families and is strongly connected with marital quality and perceived social support. The present study examines the impact of anxiety proneness, marital satisfaction, and perceived social support on fear of childbirth and development of depression among pregnant women. DESIGN AND METHODS Participants were purposively selected 136 pregnant women who were in the third trimester with ages ranging between 19 and 35 years and were selected through a purposive sampling technique from six hospitals in Pakistan. The STICSA, RAS, MSPSS, CAQ, and PADQ scales and questionnaires were used as study tools. FINDINGS Anxiety proneness positively predicted childbirth fear and depression; marital satisfaction and perceived presence of social support were negative predictors among pregnant women. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Obstetricians, nurses, midwives, and mental health professionals can imply these findings towards developing targeted antenatal programs that focus on the pregnant woman's mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aqsa Shahid
- Department of Applied Psychology, Riphah International University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Najma Iqbal Malik
- Department of Psychology, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan
| | - Fadia Shahid
- Department of Gynecology, Lahore General Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Irfan Ullah
- Kabir Medical College, Gandhara University, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Zargham Abbass
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), Kansas City, Missouri, USA
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22
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Leikas S, Lahti-Pulkkinen M, Räikkönen K. Facet-level changes in mothers’ neuroticism and extraversion from early pregnancy to 6 months post-partum. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PERSONALITY 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/08902070221098908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Becoming a parent could be expected to affect personality development, but the existing results on parenthood-personality change connection are mixed. The present study investigated 2445 primi- and multiparous mothers’ facet- and domain-level changes in Neuroticism and Extraversion from early pregnancy to 6 months post-partum, using latent difference score models. The results showed that Excitability and the affective facets of Neuroticism decreased, and the Neuroticism facets Impulsivity and Self-Consciousness increased during the follow-up. Furthermore, mother-perceived child difficult temperament attenuated desirable personality change and amplified the increases in Impulsivity. The results suggested that considering facet-level changes in personality development across significant life events is informative, and that mother-perceived child temperament may represent an important moderator of short-term personality change across the transition to parenthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sointu Leikas
- Swedish School of Social Science, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Marius Lahti-Pulkkinen
- Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Katri Räikkönen
- Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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The Relationship between Social Support and Postnatal Anxiety and Depression: Results from the Listening to Mothers in California Survey. Womens Health Issues 2022; 32:251-260. [PMID: 35246352 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2022.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) impact multiple domains of maternal and child well-being. Estimates of postpartum depressive symptoms range from 6.5% to 12.9% and from 8.6% to 9.9% for postpartum anxiety. We sought to identify the role social support could play in mitigating PMADs. METHODS The data are drawn from the Listening to Mothers in California survey; results are representative of women who gave birth in 2016 in a California hospital. The Patient Health Questionnaire-4 was used to assess total symptoms of PMADs and anxiety and depressive symptoms individually. Two questions adapted from the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey were used to assess emotional, practical, and functional (combined) social support. After exclusions for missing data related to PMADs or social support, we analyzed data from 2,372 women. RESULTS At the time of survey administration (mean 5.7 months after birth), 7.0% of respondents reported elevated PMAD symptoms and 45.9% reported that they always received functional social support. In multivariable analysis, controlling for demographic and pregnancy-related factors and prenatal anxiety and depressive symptoms, women who reported consistent support had a prevalence of elevated PMAD symptoms one-half that of those who did not (adjusted odds ratio, 0.50; 95% confidence interval, 0.34-0.74). CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that consistent social support serves as a robust protective factor against postpartum symptoms of PMADs. Because many predictors of PMADs are not modifiable, social support stands out as an important target for programmatic intervention, particularly in light of increased isolation related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Murakami K, Ishikuro M, Obara T, Ueno F, Noda A, Onuma T, Matsuzaki F, Kikuchi S, Kobayashi N, Hamada H, Iwama N, Metoki H, Saito M, Sugawara J, Tomita H, Yaegashi N, Kuriyama S. Maternal personality and postpartum mental disorders in Japan: the Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Birth and Three-Generation Cohort Study. Sci Rep 2022; 12:6400. [PMID: 35430603 PMCID: PMC9013371 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09944-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractPersonality has been shown to predict postpartum depressive symptoms (PDS) assessed by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). However, existing studies have not considered the underlying symptom dimensions in the EPDS. We analyzed data from 15,012 women who participated in the Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Birth and Three-Generation Cohort Study. Personality was assessed in middle pregnancy using the short-form Eysenck Personality Questionnaire-Revised. PDS were defined as EPDS score ≥ 9 at 1 month after delivery. The EPDS items were further divided into three dimensions: depressed mood, anxiety, and anhedonia. Multiple analyses were conducted to examine the associations of each personality scale with PDS and three dimensions in the EPDS, adjusting for age, parity, mode of delivery, education, income, and social isolation. The prevalence of PDS assessed by the EPDS at 1 month after delivery was 13.1%. Higher neuroticism scores were associated with PDS (odds ratio [OR], 2.63; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.48 to 2.79) and all three dimensions (all p < 0.001). Lower extraversion scores were associated with PDS (OR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.70 to 0.78) and all three dimensions (all p < 0.001). Lower psychoticism scores were associated with PDS (OR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.85 to 0.94) and anxiety (p < 0.001), but not with depressed mood (p = 0.20) or anhedonia (p = 0.92). In conclusion, higher neuroticism and lower extraversion were associated with PDS and the three underlying dimensions in the EPDS, while lower psychoticism was associated with anxiety, but not with depressed mood or anhedonia.
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Asselmann E, Garthus-Niegel S, Knappe S, Martini J. Physical and mental health changes in the five years before and five years after childbirth: A population-based panel study in first-time mothers and fathers from Germany. J Affect Disord 2022; 301:138-144. [PMID: 35032504 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.01.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The transition to parenthood is characterized by far-reaching changes in life. However, little prospective-longitudinal evidence from general population samples exists on changes of general physical and mental health in the years around the birth of a child among mothers and fathers. METHODS Using data from the German Socio-Economic Panel Study (SOEP), this study examined continuous and discontinuous short- and long-term changes of general physical and mental health from five years before until five years after the birth of the first child in women (N = 1,912) and men (N = 1,742). Whether a child was born was assessed annually throughout the study. Physical and mental health was assessed biannually from 2002 to 2018 with the SF-12v2. RESULTS Multilevel analyses revealed that women experienced a considerable decrease of physical health during pregnancy, which remitted after delivery. On average, women's mental health increased in the last year before and first year after delivery. These mental health improvements were stronger in older vs. younger mothers and remained largely stable in the years after childbirth. In contrast, little evidence for changes of general physical or mental health in (expectant) fathers was found. LIMITATIONS Physical and mental health was assessed with a short questionnaire only (SF-12v2). CONCLUSIONS On average, women's mental health tends to improve before and after the birth of the first child. Men seem to be much less affected by the birth of a child than many previous studies suggest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Asselmann
- Department of Psychology, HMU Health and Medical University, Olympischer Weg 1, Potsdam, Germany.
| | - Susan Garthus-Niegel
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany; Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; Department of Child Health and Development, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Susanne Knappe
- Institute of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; Evangelische Hochschule Dresden (ehs), University of Applied Sciences for Social Work, Education and Nursing, Dresden Germany
| | - Julia Martini
- Institute of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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Yu H, He J, Wang X, Yang W, Sun B, Szumilewicz A. A Comparison of Functional Features of Chinese and US Mobile Apps for Pregnancy and Postnatal Care: A Systematic App Store Search and Content Analysis. Front Public Health 2022; 10:826896. [PMID: 35252100 PMCID: PMC8891489 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.826896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pregnancy to postpartum (PtP) applications (apps) are becoming more common tools to document everything from pregnancy and delivery to nutrient allocation, life taboos, and infant medical examinations. However, the dependability, quality, and efficacy of these apps remain unclear. This study examined the features and functions of mobile PtP care apps accessible in China and the United States and to identify the major gaps that need to be addressed. Methods Apps were selected by searching the Apple App Store and Android Markets (in the US and China) for the terms “pregnancy” and “postpartum” in Chinese and English. The apps' security, quality, and effectiveness were investigated, and chi-square tests and analysis of variance were performed to examine the differences in characteristics between apps available in the US and China. Results A total of 84 mobile PtP care apps (45 from the US and 39 from China) were included. A total of 89.7% (35/39) of Chinese mobile apps did not provide safety statements or supporting evidence. The objective app quality ratings for Chinese and US apps were 3.20 ± 0.48 (mean ± standard deviation) and 3.56 ± 0.45, respectively (p > 0.05). A greater number of Chinese apps provided app-based monitoring functions, namely recording fetal size (n = 18, 46.2% in China vs. n = 3, 6.7% in the US), contractions (n = 11, 28.2% in China vs. n = 0, 0% in the US), pregnancy weight (n = 11, 28.2% in China vs. 0, 0% in the US), and pregnancy check-up reminders (n = 10, 25.6% in China vs. n = 0, 0% in the US). Meanwhile, a greater number of US apps provided exercise modules, namely pregnancy yoga (n = 2, 5.1% in China vs. n = 21, 46.7% in the US), pregnancy workouts (n = 2, 5.1% in China vs. n = 13, 28.9% in the US), and pregnancy meditation (n = 0, 0% in China vs. 10, 22.2% in the US) (p < 0.01). A medium security risk was identified for 40% (18/45) of apps in the US and 82.1% (32/39) of apps in China (p < 0.01). Conclusions The functionality and characteristics of in-store mobile apps for PtP care varied between China and the US. Both countries' apps, particularly Chinese apps, encountered issues related to a lack of evidence-based information, acceptable content risk, and program evaluations. Both countries' apps lacked proper mental health care functions. The findings suggest that the design of app features should be enhanced in both countries, and increased interaction between app creators and users is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongli Yu
- Department of Sport, Gdańsk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdańsk, Poland
- Jiuling Primary School, Mianyang, China
- *Correspondence: Hongli Yu
| | - Juan He
- Department of Sport, Gdańsk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Xinghao Wang
- Department of Sport, Gdańsk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Weilin Yang
- Department of Sport, Gdańsk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Bo Sun
- Department of Sport, Gdańsk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Anna Szumilewicz
- Department of Sport, Gdańsk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdańsk, Poland
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Isakov RI. FAMILY RELATIONS IN THE PERINATAL PERIOD (LITERATURE REVIEW). BULLETIN OF PROBLEMS BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.29254/2077-4214-2022-3-166-41-45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Perspectives of Women About Social Support Provided by Men During Pregnancy: A Qualitative Study. Matern Child Health J 2021; 26:1255-1260. [PMID: 34855059 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-021-03303-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Men have been regarded as critical partners in promoting maternal health and improving pregnancy outcomes, still men have not been able to provide these supports holistically during pregnancy due to the patriarchal nature of many Nigerian societies and dynamics in gender roles. There is a dearth of studies in Nigeria that have investigated the social support spouse provide during pregnancy. This study investigated the perspectives of women about the social support provided by men during pregnancy and factors that could influence or promote these support. METHODS Forty one consenting women who were purposively selected in six primary health centers that offer ANC services in Ibadan participated in the six focus group discussions; participants ranged from 6 to 8 in each group. Transcripts from audio recordings were analyzed using thematic analysis; similar and dissimilar themes within groups and across groups were categorized. RESULTS Discussants highlighted ways of providing social support mainly as assisting with household chores and taking care of other children. None of the discussants stated accompanying to antenatal clinic by their spouses as a way social support was provided during pregnancy. Almost all the women highlighted that social support provided by men changes as pregnancy advances but the changes were dependent on the number of children. CONCLUSIONS Community education and male friendly sessions are encouraged to promote men's participation and engagement during pregnancy.
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Personality impacts fear of childbirth and subjective birth experiences: A prospective-longitudinal study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258696. [PMID: 34731209 PMCID: PMC8565718 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous research suggests that less emotionally stable, less conscientious, less extraverted, and less agreeable women tend to suffer from higher fear of childbirth and experience their delivery as worse. Moreover, there is evidence that birth characteristics and unexpected incidents during delivery may impact women’s birth experiences. However, it remains unknown whether the role of personality in subjective birth experiences varies between women with different birth characteristics. Methods We used data from the Maternal Anxiety in Relation to Infant Development (MARI) Study, a regional-epidemiological study among pregnant women, who were prospectively followed up in multiple waves across the peripartum period. During pregnancy, personality was assessed with the short version of the Big Five Inventory. The Wijma Delivery Expectancy/ Experience Questionnaire was used to measure fear of childbirth (version A) during pregnancy and subjective birth experiences (version B) within the first 10 days after delivery. Results Linear regressions revealed that lower levels of emotional stability, agreeableness, and extraversion predicted higher fear of childbirth during pregnancy. Moreover, personality affected subjective birth experiences especially in women with specific birth characteristics: Lower emotional stability predicted worse subjective birth experiences in women with (vs. without) a preterm delivery, and higher conscientiousness predicted worse subjective birth experiences in women with an emergency cesarean section (vs. spontaneous delivery). Subjective birth experiences were also worse in less emotionally stable and less open women with (general) anesthesia (vs. no anesthesia) during delivery. Finally, higher emotional stability predicted a subjective birth experience that was worse than expected, particularly in multiparous women and women without anesthesia during delivery. Conclusions These findings suggest that less emotionally stable, less conscientious, and less open women tend to experience their delivery as worse particularly in case of unexpected incidents (i.e., preterm delivery, emergency cesarean section, and necessity of anesthetics) and might thus profit from early targeted interventions.
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Asselmann E, Garthus-Niegel S, Martini J. Personality and Peripartum Changes in Perceived Social Support: Findings From Two Prospective-Longitudinal Studies in (Expectant) Mothers and Fathers. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:814152. [PMID: 35126214 PMCID: PMC8811288 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.814152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine changes in perceived social support from early pregnancy to 2 years postpartum and to test whether these changes (a) differ between mothers and fathers or (b) vary as a function of the Big Five personality traits. BACKGROUND Higher peripartum social support in (expectant) mothers and fathers has been associated with fewer complications during pregnancy and delivery as well as better parental and offspring health. METHODS Prospective-longitudinal data from two regional-epidemiological samples from Germany were used: MARI (N = 396, including n = 293 mothers and n = 103 fathers) and DREAM (N = 2,819, including n = 1,689 mothers and n = 1,130 fathers). The Big Five personality traits were assessed during pregnancy in MARI as well as 8 weeks after the anticipated birth date in DREAM with short forms of the Big Five Inventory. Perceived social support was assessed during pregnancy, 4 months postpartum, and 16 months postpartum in MARI as well as during pregnancy, 14 months postpartum, and 2 years postpartum in DREAM using the short version of the Social Support Questionnaire. RESULTS Multilevel analyses revealed that perceived social support decreased across the peripartum period, and this decrease did not differ between mothers and fathers. More extraverted, emotionally stable, agreeable, conscientious, and open parents perceived higher levels of social support across the peripartum period. The peripartum decrease of perceived social support was smaller in parents who were more extraverted. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that especially extraversion plays an important role for high and stable levels of perceived social support across the peripartum period. IMPLICATIONS Particularly highly introverted parents might profit from targeted social support interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Asselmann
- Faculty of Health, HMU Health and Medical University, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Susan Garthus-Niegel
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical School Hamburg, Institute for Systems Medicine (ISM), Hamburg, Germany.,Faculty of Medicine, Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Department of Child Health and Development, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Julia Martini
- Faculty of Psychology, School of Science, Institute of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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