Comparative Incidence of Depression in Women and Men, During Pregnancy and after Childbirth

• DOI: 10.1192/bjp.169.1.30
• Publication Date: 2008-10-15T05:35:17Z
• Authors: M. E. G. Areias; R. Kumar; H. Barros; E. Figueiredo
• Keywords: Depression; Quarter (Canadian coin)

Background Comparing women's and men's emotional reactions to childbirth can clarify the impact on mental health of as a life event. Method Fifty-four first-time mothers attending obstetric services in Oporto, Portugal, 42 their husbands or partners participated longitudinal study health. All subjects were given semi-structured clinical interview (SADS) at 6 months antenatally 12 postnatally sub-samples interviewed 3 postnatally. At all these times fathers also completed translated version self-rating scale for depression, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Results More women than men had past histories depression but rates did not differ significantly during pregnancy. In first postnatally, nearly quarter ‘at risk’ found have become depressed (major, minor intermittent) contrast with less 5% men. next nine more prone previously conditions tended follow an earlier onset spouses. Conclusion Comparisons EPDS SADS ratings showed that was valid instrument it satisfactory when applied