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Beumer WY, Koot MH, Vrijkotte T, Roseboom TJ, van Ditzhuijzen J. Long-term effects of unintended pregnancy on children: Findings from the Dutch prospective birth-cohort Amsterdam born children and their development study. Soc Sci Med 2024; 357:117200. [PMID: 39142143 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.117200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
Several studies investigated short-term risks of children born from unintended pregnancies, however evidence about long-term risks is lacking. We aimed to examine whether children born from unintended pregnancies experience psychosocial problems up into adolescence. This study is based on the longitudinal birth cohort study 'Amsterdam Born Children and their Development' (n = 7784). Unintended pregnancy was measured as a multidimensional construct, based on self-reports on the extent of pregnancy mistiming ('This pregnancy happened too soon'), unwantedness ('I did not want to be pregnant (anymore)') and unhappiness ('I am happy to be pregnant'; recoded). Further, children's psychosocial problems were measured with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, at 5-6, 11-12 and 15-16 years old. Multiple over-time associations between unintended pregnancy and children's psychosocial problems were analysed using Structural Equation Modelling, while controlling for confounders. Results showed that pregnancy mistiming was a significant predictor of internalizing (β = 0.10, p < 0.001) and externalizing problems (β = 0.07, p = 0.006) and unwanted pregnancy of internalizing problems (β = 0.13, p < 0.001) at 5-6 years. These associations were substantially mediated by maternal mental health and poorer maternal bonding. Associations were no longer present at 11-12 and 15-16 years. Thus, we conclude that children born from unintended pregnancies experience more psychosocial problems at 5-6 years, but no longer at 11-12 and 15-16 years. Unintended pregnancies often coincide with maternal mental health problems and socioeconomic factors. Most importantly, the associations between unintended pregnancy and children's psychosocial problems are influenced by maternal mental health and poorer bonding. Therefore it is important to improve maternal mental health and bonding for the benefit of both mother and child, rather than on the isolated effect of unintended pregnancy per se.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wieke Y Beumer
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Obstetrics and Gyneacology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Epidemiology and Data Science, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Marjette H Koot
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Obstetrics and Gyneacology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Epidemiology and Data Science, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Tanja Vrijkotte
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Public and Occupational Health, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Tessa J Roseboom
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Epidemiology and Data Science, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jenneke van Ditzhuijzen
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Obstetrics and Gyneacology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Utrecht University, Interdisciplinary Social Science, Social Policy and Public Health, Heidelberglaan 1, Utrecht, Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Bergunde L, Rihm L, Lange LS, Darwin Z, Iles J, Garthus-Niegel S. Family mental health research - the importance of adopting a family lens in the perinatal period and beyond. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2024; 42:565-568. [PMID: 38836634 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2024.2363090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- L Bergunde
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine of the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine of the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - L Rihm
- Institute for Systems Medicine (ISM), Faculty of Medicine, Medical School Hamburg MSH, Hamburg, Germany
| | - L-S Lange
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine of the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Z Darwin
- School of Human and Health Sciences, University of Huddersfield, UK
| | - J Iles
- Department of Psychological Interventions, School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Surrey, UK
| | - S Garthus-Niegel
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine of the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Institute for Systems Medicine (ISM), Faculty of Medicine, Medical School Hamburg MSH, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Childhood and Families, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
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Abderhalden-Zellweger A, de Labrusse C, Gemperle M, Grylka-Baeschlin S, Pfund A, Mueller AN, Mariani I, Pessa Valente E, Lazzerini M. Women's experiences of disrespect and abuse in Swiss facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative analysis of an open-ended question in the IMAgiNE EURO study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:402. [PMID: 38822258 PMCID: PMC11143635 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-024-06598-6] [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: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged the provision of maternal care. The IMAgiNE EURO study investigates the Quality of Maternal and Newborn Care during the pandemic in over 20 countries, including Switzerland. AIM This study aims to understand women's experiences of disrespect and abuse in Swiss health facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Data were collected via an anonymous online survey on REDCap®. Women who gave birth between March 2020 and March 2022 and answered an open-ended question in the IMAgiNE EURO questionnaire were included in the study. A qualitative thematic analysis of the women's comments was conducted using the International Confederation of Midwives' RESPECT toolkit as a framework for analysis. FINDINGS The data source for this study consisted of 199 comments provided by women in response to the open-ended question in the IMAgiNE EURO questionnaire. Analysis of these comments revealed clear patterns of disrespect and abuse in health facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. These patterns include non-consensual care, with disregard for women's choices and birth preferences; undignified care, characterised by disrespectful attitudes and a lack of empathy from healthcare professionals; and feelings of abandonment and neglect, including denial of companionship during childbirth and separation from newborns. Insufficient organisational and human resources in health facilities were identified as contributing factors to disrespectful care. Empathic relationships with healthcare professionals were reported to be the cornerstone of positive experiences. DISCUSSION Swiss healthcare facilities showed shortcomings related to disrespect and abuse in maternal care. The pandemic context may have brought new challenges that compromised certain aspects of respectful care. The COVID-19 crisis also acted as a magnifying glass, potentially revealing and exacerbating pre-existing gaps and structural weaknesses within the healthcare system, including understaffing. CONCLUSIONS These findings should guide advocacy efforts, urging policy makers and health facilities to allocate adequate resources to ensure respectful and high-quality maternal care during pandemics and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Abderhalden-Zellweger
- School of Health Sciences (HESAV), HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Avenue de Beaumont 21, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Claire de Labrusse
- School of Health Sciences (HESAV), HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Avenue de Beaumont 21, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Michael Gemperle
- Research Institute of Midwifery and Reproductive Health, ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - Susanne Grylka-Baeschlin
- Research Institute of Midwifery and Reproductive Health, ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - Anouck Pfund
- School of Health Sciences (HESAV), HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Avenue de Beaumont 21, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Antonia N Mueller
- Research Institute of Midwifery and Reproductive Health, ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - Ilaria Mariani
- WHO Collaborating Center for Maternal and Child Health, Institute for Maternaland , Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Emanuelle Pessa Valente
- WHO Collaborating Center for Maternal and Child Health, Institute for Maternaland , Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Marzia Lazzerini
- WHO Collaborating Center for Maternal and Child Health, Institute for Maternaland , Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
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Maxwell D, Leat SR, Gallegos T, Praetorius RT. Sacred space: a qualitative interpretive meta-synthesis of women's experiences of supportive birthing environments. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:372. [PMID: 38750419 PMCID: PMC11097458 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-024-06544-6] [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: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the United States there are roughly three million births a year, ranging from cesarean to natural births. A major aspect of the birthing process is related to the healing environment, and how that helps or harms healing for the mother and child. Using the theoretical framework, Theory of Supportive Care Settings (TSCS), this study aimed to explore what is necessary to have a safe and sacred healing environment for mothers. METHOD This study utilized an updated Qualitative Interpretive Meta-synthesis (QIMS) design called QIMS-DTT [deductive theory testing] to answer the research question, What are mother's experiences of environmental factors contributing to a supportive birthing environment within healthcare settings? RESULTS Key terms were run through multiple databases, which resulted in 5,688 articles. After title and abstract screening, 43 were left for full-text, 12 were excluded, leaving 31 to be included in the final QIMS. Five main themes emerged from analysis: 1) Service in the environment, 2) Recognizing oneself within the birthing space, 3) Creating connections with support systems, 4) Being welcomed into the birthing space, and 5) Feeling safe within the birthing environment. CONCLUSIONS Providing a warm and welcoming birth space is crucial for people who give birth to have positive experiences. Providing spaces where the person can feel safe and supported allows them to find empowerment in the situation where they have limited control.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Toni Gallegos
- The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, USA
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Ettenberger M, Bieleninik Ł, Stordal AS, Ghetti C. The effect of paternal anxiety on mother-infant bonding in neonatal intensive care. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:55. [PMID: 38212696 PMCID: PMC10782755 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-06179-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The hospitalization of a preterm infant in the NICU can lead to mental health difficulties in parents, but not much is known how paternal anxiety might affect the mother-infant relationship. METHODS This prospective cohort study is a secondary analysis investigating how paternal anxiety levels might affect maternal bonding in the NICU using the dataset of the multinational pragmatic randomized controlled trial LongSTEP. A linear mixed-effects model was used for correlations of paternal anxiety (GAD-7) and maternal bonding (PBQ) at NICU discharge, and at 6 and 12 months infant corrected age. Secondary analyses examined effects on paternal anxiety related to: site (Argentina, Colombia, Israel, Norway, and Poland), maternal depression (EPDS), infant gestational age at birth, paternal age, and type of pregnancy. RESULTS Paternal anxiety did not predict maternal bonding at NICU discharge (p = 0.096), at 6 months (p = 0.316), or at 12 months infant corrected age (p = 0.473). Secondary outcomes showed a statistically significant site effect, with higher paternal anxiety levels at the two Colombian sites at baseline (p = 0.014 and p = 0.020) and for one site at discharge (p = 0.012), but not for paternal age (p = 0.925 and p = 0.793), infant gestational age at birth (p = 0.974 and p = 0.686 and p = 0.340), or type of pregnancy (p = 0.381). Maternal depression predicted paternal anxiety at baseline (p < 0.001) and at discharge (p = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS In this study, paternal anxiety did not predict maternal bonding. Paternal anxiety varied by site, indicating a need for research on potential cultural differences in manifestation of paternal anxiety. Maternal depression predicted paternal anxiety, confirming a previously reported correlation. Further research on variations in paternal mental health in the neonatal period is warranted, as well as exploration of the social contagion of mental health in preterm parents. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03564184.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Ettenberger
- Music Therapy Service, Department of Social Management, Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Bogotá, Colombia
- Music Therapy Service, Clínica de la Mujer, Bogotá, Colombia
- SONO - Centro de Musicoterapia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Łucja Bieleninik
- Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
- GAMUT - The Grieg Academy Music Therapy Research Centre, NORCE Norwegian Research Centre AS, Bergen, Norway
- Institute of Pedagogy and Languages, University of Applied Sciences, Elbląg, Poland
| | - Andreas Størksen Stordal
- NORCE Technology, NORCE Norwegian Research Centre AS, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Mathematics, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Claire Ghetti
- GAMUT - The Grieg Academy Music Therapy Research Centre, NORCE Norwegian Research Centre AS, Bergen, Norway.
- Dept. of Music, GAMUT - The Grieg Academy Music Therapy Research Centre, The Grieg Academy, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
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Marçal K. Housing hardship and maternal mental health among renter households with young children. Psychiatry Res 2024; 331:115677. [PMID: 38113812 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115677] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Maternal mental health is crucial to healthy family functioning and child well-being. Housing hardship may increase risk for mood disorders among mothers of young children in renter households. The present study used latent class analysis to investigate manifestations of housing hardship during the postpartum year in a sample of renter mothers in the United States (N = 2,329), as well as whether housing hardship types were associated with subsequent maternal depression and anxiety. The majority of mothers were relatively stably housed ("Stable"), one in six made do with governmental rental assistance ("Rent-Assisted"), and more than one in ten struggled to afford or maintain stable housing ("Cost-Burdened" or "Housing Insecure"). The most severe housing hardship was associated with the greatest depression risk, whereas the best determinant of anxiety risk was whether rent was paid each month; mothers whose rent was paid with government assistance did not differ on anxiety risk compared to those who paid their rent independently. Findings suggest that different types of housing hardship are linked with distinct mental health sequelae. Widely available housing assistance may reduce cost burden and prevent displacement, with the potential to reduce mental disorder among low-income mothers of young children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Marçal
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
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7
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Cherbuin N, Bansal A, Dahlstrom JE, Carlisle H, Broom M, Nanan R, Sutherland S, Vardoulakis S, Phillips CB, Peek MJ, Christensen BK, Davis D, Nolan CJ. Bushfires and Mothers' Mental Health in Pregnancy and Recent Post-Partum. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 21:7. [PMID: 38276795 PMCID: PMC10815782 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The compounding effects of climate change catastrophes such as bushfires and pandemics impose significant burden on individuals, societies, and their economies. The enduring effects of such syndemics on mental health remain poorly understood, particularly for at-risk populations (e.g., pregnant women and newborns). The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of direct and indirect exposure to the 2019/20 Australian Capital Territory and South-Eastern New South Wales bushfires followed by COVID-19 on the mental health and wellbeing of pregnant women and mothers with newborn babies. METHODS All women who were pregnant, had given birth, or were within three months of conceiving during the 2019/2020 bushfires, lived within the catchment area, and provided consent were invited to participate. Those who consented were asked to complete three online surveys. Mental health was assessed with the DASS-21 and the WHO-5. Bushfire, smoke, and COVID-19 exposures were assessed by self-report. Cross-sectional associations between exposures and mental health measures were tested with hierarchical regression models. RESULTS Of the women who participated, and had minimum data (n = 919), most (>75%) reported at least one acute bushfire exposure and 63% reported severe smoke exposure. Compared to Australian norms, participants had higher depression (+12%), anxiety (+35%), and stress (+43%) scores. Women with greater exposure to bushfires/smoke but not COVID-19 had poorer scores on all mental health measures. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide novel evidence that the mental health of pregnant women and mothers of newborn babies is vulnerable to major climate catastrophes such as bushfires.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Cherbuin
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Amita Bansal
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia; (A.B.); (C.J.N.)
- John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Jane E. Dahlstrom
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia; (A.B.); (C.J.N.)
- John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- The Canberra Hospital, Canberra Health Services, Garran, ACT 2605, Australia; (H.C.)
| | - Hazel Carlisle
- The Canberra Hospital, Canberra Health Services, Garran, ACT 2605, Australia; (H.C.)
| | - Margaret Broom
- The Canberra Hospital, Canberra Health Services, Garran, ACT 2605, Australia; (H.C.)
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia;
| | - Ralph Nanan
- Sydney Medical School and Charles Perkins Centre Nepean, University of Sydney, Penrith, NSW 2750, Australia;
| | - Stewart Sutherland
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia; (A.B.); (C.J.N.)
| | - Sotiris Vardoulakis
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Christine B. Phillips
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia; (A.B.); (C.J.N.)
| | - Michael J. Peek
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia; (A.B.); (C.J.N.)
| | - Bruce K. Christensen
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia; (A.B.); (C.J.N.)
| | - Deborah Davis
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia;
- Nursing and Midwifery Office, ACT Government Health Directorate, Phillip, ACT 2606, Australia
| | - Christopher J. Nolan
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia; (A.B.); (C.J.N.)
- John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- The Canberra Hospital, Canberra Health Services, Garran, ACT 2605, Australia; (H.C.)
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Sawyer G, Heron J, Joinson C. The relationship between maternal psychopathology and offspring incontinence and constipation at school age: A prospective cohort study. J Affect Disord 2023; 335:1-9. [PMID: 37156278 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is evidence for an association between maternal psychopathology and offspring incontinence and constipation, but it is unclear if there is a critical/sensitive period of exposure to maternal depression and/or anxiety in the antenatal or postnatal period. METHODS Mothers from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children provided data on their depression and anxiety (antenatal and postnatal) and their child's urinary and faecal incontinence and constipation at age 7 (6489 participants). We used multivariable logistic regression to examine evidence for independent effects of maternal depression/anxiety on offspring incontinence/constipation and to investigate if there was a critical/sensitive period of exposure. We examined evidence for causal intra-uterine effects using a negative control design. RESULTS Postnatal maternal psychopathology was associated with an increased risk of offspring incontinence and constipation (e.g. postnatal anxiety and daytime wetting OR: 1.53; 95 % CI: 1.21-1.94). Data were consistent with a postnatal critical period model and there was evidence for an independent effect of maternal anxiety. Antenatal maternal psychopathology was associated with offspring constipation (e.g. antenatal anxiety OR: 1.57; 95 % CI: 1.25-1.98), but there was no evidence for a causal intra-uterine effect. LIMITATIONS Attrition and maternal reports without use of diagnostic criteria for incontinence/constipation are potential limitations. CONCLUSIONS Children exposed to maternal postnatal psychopathology had a greater risk of incontinence/constipation, and maternal anxiety had stronger associations than depression. Health professionals should be vigilant to effects of maternal psychopathology on child development. Identification of mechanisms linking maternal psychopathology to child incontinence/constipation is required to inform evidence-based support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Sawyer
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | - Jon Heron
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; Centre for Academic Mental Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Carol Joinson
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Liu C, Ystrom E, McAdams TA. Long-Term Maternal and Child Outcomes Following Postnatal SSRI Treatment. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2331270. [PMID: 37642961 PMCID: PMC10466165 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.31270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Although selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are recommended for postnatal depression treatment, there is a lack of evidence regarding long-term maternal and child outcomes following postnatal SSRI treatment. Objective To examine whether postnatal SSRI treatment moderated postnatal depression-associated maternal and child outcomes across early childhood years. Design, Setting, and Participants This cohort study used longitudinal data from the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study. Participating women were recruited in weeks 17 to 18 of pregnancy from 1999 to 2008 and were prospectively followed up after childbirth. Data analysis was performed between December 2021 to October 2022. Exposure Postnatal depression diagnosis (a binary indicator of eligibility for treatment) was defined as a score of 7 or greater on the 6-item version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. The Hopkins Symptom Checklist was used as a continuous indicator of and postnatal depressive symptomology at postpartum month 6. Postnatal SSRI treatment was identified using self-reported data at postpartum month 6. Main Outcomes and Measures Maternal outcomes included self-reported depression symptomology and relationship satisfaction from childbirth to postpartum year 5. Child outcomes included maternal-report internalizing and externalizing problems, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms, and motor and language development at ages 1.5, 3, and 5 years. A propensity score adjustment method was used to control for prenatal factors associated with postnatal SSRI exposure probability. Results Among a total of 61 081 mother-child dyads, 8671 (14.2%) (mean [SD] age, 29.93 [4.76] years) met the criteria for postnatal depression diagnosis, 177 (2.0%) (mean [SD] age, 30.20 [5.01] years) of whom received postnatal SSRI treatment. More severe postnatal depression symptomology was associated with a range of adverse maternal and child outcomes. Focusing analyses only on the postnatal depression dyads indicated that postnatal SSRI treatment attenuated negative associations between postnatal depression and maternal relationship satisfaction at postpartum month 6 (moderation β, 0.13; 95% CI, 0.07-0.19), years 1.5 (moderation β, 0.11; 95% CI, 0.05-0.18) and 3 (moderation β, 0.12; 95% CI, 0.04-0.19), and for child ADHD at age 5 years (moderation β, -0.15; 95% CI, -0.24 to -0.05). Postnatal SSRI treatment mitigated the negative associations between postnatal depression and maternal depression, partner relationship satisfaction, child externalizing problems, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder up to 5 years after childbirth. Conclusions and Relevance The results of this large prospective cohort study suggest that postnatal SSRI treatment was associated with a reduced risk of postnatal depression-associated maternal mental health problems and child externalizing behaviors across early childhood years. These findings suggest that postnatal SSRI treatment may bring benefits in the long term to women with postnatal depression and their offspring. This study potentially provides valuable information for clinicians and women with postnatal depression to make informed treatment decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoyu Liu
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College, London, England
| | - Eivind Ystrom
- PROMENTA Research Center, Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department Mental Disorders, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Pharmaco-Epidemiology and Drug Safety Research Group, School of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tom A McAdams
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College, London, England
- PROMENTA Research Center, Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Le J, Alhusen J, Dreisbach C. Screening for Partner Postpartum Depression: A Systematic Review. MCN Am J Matern Child Nurs 2023; 48:142-150. [PMID: 36744867 DOI: 10.1097/nmc.0000000000000907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postpartum depression is a significant mental health condition affecting an estimated 7% to 20% of women, with higher rates among individuals with increased risk factors. Most research on postpartum depression has focused on mothers, with less recognition of the mental health changes experienced by their partners. Research suggests almost 20% of partners may experience postpartum depression, yet our understanding is limited. An enhanced understanding of postpartum depression in a birthing person's partner is critical, given the mental and physical health sequelae associated with depression. PURPOSE The purpose of this review was to systematically examine the current tools available to assess partner postpartum depression. METHODS We conducted a systematic review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Eligible studies were identified using selected key terms in PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Web of Science, and Ovid MEDLINE. Studies were included if they assessed partner depressive symptoms and identified the specified use of a tool or screening measure. RESULTS Seventeen studies met inclusion criteria. Seven different measures were used to assess postpartum depression. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was used in 16 out of the 17 studies for depression assessment. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Routine screening of partners for postpartum depression should be recommended as part of standard care. Nurses are critical liaisons for assessing risk and connecting relevant and timely resources to birthing people and their partners. Identifying the available screening tools may help to avoid adverse clinical outcomes associated with increased symptom severity and burden.
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11
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Millwood SN, Manczak EM. Maternal psychological functioning mediates the association between infant behavior and subsequent child psychological functioning. Infant Behav Dev 2023; 71:101837. [PMID: 37027947 DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2023.101837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
Symptoms of psychopathology that onset during childhood are often more severe, chronic, and difficult to treat than symptoms that first appear later in life. Maternal psychological symptoms are associated with the development of psychological symptoms in children. However, less research focuses on whether children's behaviors may presage maternal psychological difficulties that, in turn, contribute to the child's own psychological functioning. Identifying psychological difficulties in families and intervening in early life may lower risk for intergenerational transmission of subsequent psychological symptoms. Even at non-clinical or normative levels, exploring transactional models of parent-child behavior and psychological functioning may provide insight into the development of later psychological difficulties or symptoms within families. Thus, the current study examined whether difficult infant behavior (e.g., fussiness, unpredictability) is associated with future maternal psychological difficulties and subsequently, the child's own psychological functioning in early childhood. The current sample includes 847 dyads from a multi-wave birth cohort in England ('Born in Bradford'), who identified as predominantly non-White (62.2%) and socioeconomically diverse. Mothers reported on their child's behaviors at 6 months, their own psychological functioning during pregnancy and at 18 months postpartum, and their child's psychological functioning at age 3. Results of a mediation model revealed that the association between infant behavior at 6 months and child psychological functioning at 3 years is partially explained by maternal psychological functioning at 18 months, even after accounting for psychological difficulties during pregnancy, maternal age at birth, child sex, family income, and ethnicity. Post-hoc exploratory analyses revealed that the association between infant behavior, maternal psychological functioning, and subsequent child psychological functioning was significant for Pakistani British families but not White British families. These findings provide preliminary evidence that infant behaviors (e.g., temperament) may presage future maternal psychological difficulties and subsequent child psychological functioning, above and beyond previous maternal psychological functioning. Importantly, these results highlight infant behavior as a potential catalyst for later psychological difficulties within families.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Erika M Manczak
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, CO, USA
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Lalor JG, Sheaf G, Mulligan A, Ohaja M, Clive A, Murphy-Tighe S, Ng ED, Shorey S. Parental experiences with changes in maternity care during the Covid-19 pandemic: A mixed-studies systematic review. Women Birth 2023; 36:e203-e212. [PMID: 35973917 PMCID: PMC9364727 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2022.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 pandemic, pregnant women were identified as a high-risk and vulnerable group. To reduce risk of transmission, maternity healthcare services were modified to limit exposure but maintain services for pregnant women. However, the change in hospital practice may have compromised quality maternal care standards. Therefore, this review aims to explore parental experiences and views with maternity care received from healthcare institutions during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A mixed studies systematic review was conducted. Six electronic databases (Medline, CINAHL, Embase, PsycInfo, Web of Science, and Maternity and Infant Care) were searched for qualitative, observational, and mixed method studies from the year 2019 to February 2022. Study quality was appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Quantitative findings were converted to narrative findings. Data was synthesised thematically using a convergent synthesis design. RESULTS Fifty-eight articles were included. Four themes were generated: (1) Distress associated with COVID-19 regulations (perception of hospital restrictions, confusion with ever changing policies), (2) adaptability with maternity services (prenatal: changes in birth plans, prenatal: altered antenatal appointments, education, and care, intrapartum: medicalization of birth, postpartum: varied views on care received and Breastfeeding woes, postpartum: skin-to-skin contact and mother infant bonding) (3) importance of support persons, and (4) future direction for maternity services. CONCLUSIONS Parental experiences highlighted how maternity care during the COVID-19 pandemic did not adhere to WHO standards of quality maternity care. This calls for healthcare institutions to continuously appraise the implementation of restrictive practices that deviate from evidence-based frameworks underpinning quality care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Gabrielle Lalor
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, 24 D’Olier St, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Greg Sheaf
- The Library of Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Andrea Mulligan
- School of Law, Trinity College Dublin, House 39, New Square, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Magdalena Ohaja
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland Galway, Ireland
| | - Ashamole Clive
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, 24 D’Olier St, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | | | - Esperanza Debby Ng
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Level 2, Clinical Research Centre, Block MD11,10 Medical Drive, 117597, Singapore
| | - Shefaly Shorey
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Level 2, Clinical Research Centre, Block MD11,10 Medical Drive, 117597, Singapore.
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Qin X, Xu S, Ma M, Fan X, Nie X, Zhang Y, Liu B, Li L. Differences in associations between family functioning and anxious and depressive symptoms in Chinese women and their partners in early pregnancy. BJPsych Open 2022; 8:e158. [PMID: 35983767 PMCID: PMC9438476 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2022.549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family functioning is associated with anxiety and depression. Perinatal depression and anxiety are common and influence the well-being of women, partners and their offspring. However, little is known about differences in associations between family functioning and mood symptoms in women and their partners in early pregnancy. AIMS Investigating differences in associations between family functioning and anxious and depressive symptoms in women and their partners in early pregnancy. METHOD In total, 171 woman-partner pairs were enrolled. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item scale (GAD-7) and Family Assessment Device (FAD) were performed. Correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis were applied to investigate the associations. RESULTS In pregnant women, all the subscale scores on the FAD were correlated with total scores on the EPDS and GAD-7 (all P < 0.05), whereas only the Roles subscale showed a predicting effect in regression models (P < 0.01). In partners, all the subscale scores on the FAD were related to total scores on the PHQ-9 (all P < 0.05), whereas only the Problem Solving subscale showed a predicting effect (P = 0.029). CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that family functioning in the domain of roles is associated with anxious and depressive symptoms in pregnant women and functioning in the domain of problem solving is associated with depressive symptoms in partners. Clinicians should pay special attention to roles and problem solving when assessing mood symptoms in pregnant women and their partners. This study also provides a basis for family health education in early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemei Qin
- Department of Psychiatry, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; and Mental Health Institute of Central South University, China National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Hunan Technology Institute of Psychiatry, Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hunan Medical Center for Mental Health, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Shuyin Xu
- Department of Psychiatry, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; and Mental Health Institute of Central South University, China National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Hunan Technology Institute of Psychiatry, Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hunan Medical Center for Mental Health, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Mohan Ma
- Department of Psychiatry, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; and Mental Health Institute of Central South University, China National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Hunan Technology Institute of Psychiatry, Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hunan Medical Center for Mental Health, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Xing Fan
- Changsha Hospital for Maternal and Child Health Care, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Xueqing Nie
- Changsha Hospital for Maternal and Child Health Care, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; and Mental Health Institute of Central South University, China National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Hunan Technology Institute of Psychiatry, Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hunan Medical Center for Mental Health, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Bangshan Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; and Mental Health Institute of Central South University, China National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Hunan Technology Institute of Psychiatry, Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hunan Medical Center for Mental Health, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Lingjiang Li
- Department of Psychiatry, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China; and Mental Health Institute of Central South University, China National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Hunan Technology Institute of Psychiatry, Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hunan Medical Center for Mental Health, Changsha 410011, Hunan, China
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Kim S, Bang KS, Jeong Y, Lee G, Shin DA, Kim M. The experience of unmarried mothers raising their children in residential facilities: a phenomenological qualitative study. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:274. [PMID: 35790953 PMCID: PMC9255542 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-01727-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Birth outside of marriage has been gradually increasing in Korea. However, social perception of unmarried mothers is still negative, and a number of them are not accepted by their family. Therefore, the Korean government has implemented a policy to provide financial aid and communal residence to unmarried mothers who cannot raise children with their family, or afford residence. Unmarried young mothers who rely on this government policy have low economic independence and social adaptation skills. Additionally, they have a high chance of encountering numerous challenges in raising children due to their living conditions in residential facilities and social prejudice. This study was conducted to gain an in-depth understanding of the lived experience of unmarried mothers raising children in residential facilities. METHODS Data were collected through in-depth interviews with nine unmarried mothers living in residential facilities with their children. An interpretative phenomenological analysis was conducted to analyze the data. RESULTS The findings revealed that unmarried mothers struggled with various difficulties given the limitations of living in the facility, but attempted to navigate their uncertain future with the determination to be good mothers. Three main themes and eight sub-themes emerged: (1) adaptation to the identity of "unmarried mother", (2) willingly undertaking the heavy burden of childrearing, (3) indispensable but insufficient supports from facilities. Participants had childrearing responsibilities, and tried to be good mothers for their children while struggling to adapt to their new identities. However, their self-doubt as a "good mother" and the absence of the child's father made them feel sorry for their child. Their daily experiences raising children and simultaneously preparing for their own independence were exhausting. The supports from the facilities were helpful but unsatisfactory and led to various psychosocial difficulties such as anxiety, depression, fear, guilty, and anger in unmarried mothers. CONCLUSIONS Besides information and resources for parenting and independence, active approaches are needed to improve the psychological stability of unmarried mothers raising their children in facilities, and sustain a long-term socioeconomic support system. Thoughtful services tailored to mothers and children are also needed, instead of standardized services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungjae Kim
- College of Nursing·The Research Institute of Nursing Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, 03080, South Korea
| | - Kyung-Sook Bang
- College of Nursing·The Research Institute of Nursing Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, 03080, South Korea
| | - Yeseul Jeong
- College of Nursing, Seoul National University, Seoul, 03080, South Korea.
| | - Gumhee Lee
- College of Nursing, Seoul National University, Seoul, 03080, South Korea
| | - Da-Ae Shin
- College of Nursing, Seoul National University, Seoul, 03080, South Korea
| | - Misook Kim
- College of Nursing, Seoul National University, Seoul, 03080, South Korea
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