The association of unplanned pregnancy with perinatal depression: a longitudinal cohort study

• DOI: 10.1007/s00737-022-01225-9
• Publication Date: 2022-03-29T01:03:41Z
• Authors: Lotte Muskens; Myrthe G. B. M. B...; Willem J. Kop; Marion I. van den...; Victor J. M. Pop; Annemerle Beerthu...
• Keywords: Depression; Association (psychology); Longitudinal Study; Antenatal depression

Perinatal depression is common, affecting approximately 7-13% of women. Studies have shown an association between unplanned pregnancy and perinatal depressive symptoms, but many used a cross-sectional design limited postnatal follow-up. The current study investigated the with symptoms using longitudinal cohort that followed women from first trimester until 12 months postpartum. Pregnant (N = 1928) provided demographic clinical data information about intention at trimester. Depressive were assessed during each five times postpartum Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) Mixed model analyses to investigate level symptoms. Women 111, 5.8%) reported persistently higher levels entire period compared planned pregnancy, after adjustment for confounders (p < 0.001). However, course symptom scores over time in was similar pregnancy. Lower age 0.006), unemployment 0.004), history 0.001) significantly associated An may long-lasting negative impact on woman's mental health. Therefore, benefit systematic follow-up contingent health support.