Predictors of increased depressive symptoms in the postpartum period

Abstract

Introduction: Pregnancy and the postpartum period are a risk period in a woman’s life in terms of manifesting mental disorders, such as postpartum depression. Previous research has identified several risk factors affecting the onset and progression of postpartum depression. Aim: (1) to find the occurrence of depressive symptoms in the postpartum women group; (2) to verify the influence of selected factors on the level of postpartum depression. Materials and methods: Study sample consisted of 510 mothers in the postpartum period, mean age 30.6 years (±5.3; range 19–45 years). The Edinburgh postnatal depression scale was used to measure symptoms of depression; a questionnaire of our own design was used to assess selected factors potentially influencing level of depressive symptoms. Results: In the Edinburgh postnatal depression scale, the respondents achieved an average score of 9.3 ± 5.6; and the prevalence of severe depressive symptoms was 25.3%. The linear regression model showed that significant predictors of postpartum depression were: lower education; history of depression; dependence on the opinion of others; concerns about future; low satisfaction with motherhood; problems with partner; problems with breast-feeding; tearful child; negative emotions toward the baby; and poor mastering of maternity. Discussion: Significant predictors of postpartum depression identified in this study can be easily detected in clinical practice using the unique long-term contact that a woman has with her prenatal midwife. Evaluation of mothers’ emotional health and screening for postpartum depression risk factors can enable midwives to identify those at risk and intervene in a timely manner.