| Learning Objective #1: State two predictors of postpartum depression | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Identify postpartum depression assessment and screening interventions for women during pregnancy |
A longitudinal design, guided by stress response theory, was used.
Women (N = 139) in their third trimester of pregnancy were recruited from care provider's offices or through self-referral. The sample had a mean age of 27 years (SD = 5.2). Ethnic representation approximated that of the locale: 88% Caucasian, 4% Hispanic, 4% Native American, 2 % Asian, and 1% African American.
Abuse (Severity of Violence Against Women Scales), postpartum depression (Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale), and prenatal health (Childbearing Health Questionnaire, Centers for Epidemiology Depressed Mood Scale, Predictors of Postpartum Depression Inventory) were the variables.
Data were collected in prenatal offices after informed consent was obtained. Data were collected using telephone and mailed surveys from 2-8 months postpartum.
Linear regression indicated that the severity of postpartum depression (R2 = .910, p = .008) was due to the level of prenatal depression (Beta = .915), severity of violence experienced (Beta = -.475), relationship to the abuser (Beta = -.670), and having a prior postpartum depression (Beta = .672). As noted in other reports, age, gravida, socioecomomic status, and ethnicity did not predict depression. In contrast to other studies, support from the baby's father, use of alcohol, and a planned pregnancy had no direct effect on the level of postpartum depression.
Results highlight the importance of evaluating depression and prior physical/sexual abuse during prenatal visits. Postnatal functioning is enhanced for at-risk women by adequate assessments, early intervention, and follow-up.
Grant Support: National Institute of Nursing Research, 1R15 NR05311-01A2.