Postpartum Mental State of Mothers of Twins

Abstract

Twin birth is a relevant risk factor for postnatal depression (PND). The primary objective of our study is to reveal the prevalence of suspected cases of depression and to identify some background factors among mothers of twins. We applied convenience sampling method within a retrospective, quantitative study among mothers given birth to twins for six months, but, at least, three years. The participants completed the self-administered, modular questionnaire and the standard EPDS questionnaire anonymously. 35% of mothers of twins reached or exceeded the threshold value for depression following the first six months after delivery. No significant difference was found in the prevalence of the suspected cases among the primipara and multipara (p=1.000). At the same time, artificial conception proved to be a significant risk factor (p= 0.019). Distraught family life (p=0.001) and unfavorable changes in a domestic partnership (p=0.009) increased the prevalence of the suspected cases of depression significantly. The health visitor is the only person who knows the hierarchy of families with their weaknesses and strengths in the Hungarian primary health care; therefore, her role is unquestionable in the recognition of maternal mood disorders. The health visitor compares the scores of the EPDS questionnaire with the experiences during family visits, and with all of these facts, she refers the person in need to a specialist.