Demographics, Pregnancy Attempts, and Postpartum Depression in Women

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: The Association Between Demographic Characteristics and Attempting of Pregnancy with Postpartum Depression and Anxiety Among Women Referring to Community Health Centres: A Cross Sectional Study
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:

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Author:

Maryam Alikamali, Sedigheh Khodabandeh, Maryam Motesaddi, Zeinab Bagheri, Mohammad Ali Esmaeili


The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: The Association Between Demographic Characteristics and Attempting of Pregnancy with Postpartum Depression and Anxiety Among Women Referring to Community Health Centres: A Cross Sectional Study

Year: 2020 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2020.27.3.10

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Postpartum depression (PPD) and anxiety significantly affect both maternal and infant health, making it crucial to investigate the factors associated with their prevalence. This study focuses on Iranian women seeking health care four weeks to six months after childbirth, exploring the influence of demographic characteristics and pregnancy intentions on the risk of developing PPD and anxiety. Previous research indicated varying levels of PPD among different cultural and socioeconomic groups, signifying the need for targeted interventions to support vulnerable populations.

Impact of Unintended Pregnancy on Mental Health

One of the pivotal findings of this study is the relationship between unintended pregnancies and elevated risks of PPD and anxiety. Women who experienced unintended pregnancies reported higher levels of depressive and anxious symptoms compared to those with intended pregnancies. Unintended pregnancies often lead to increased psychological stress and may compromise maternal mental health due to the associated social and economic challenges. The data suggest that low gestational age, food insecurity, cesarean delivery, and dissatisfaction with the infant's gender further exacerbate these mental health issues. Hence, the results reinforce the importance of addressing unwanted pregnancies as a means to mitigate maternal distress.

Conclusion

The study concludes that demographic traits and the intention behind pregnancies are independently linked to PPD and anxiety in women. Factors such as low gestational age, cesarean deliveries, and unintended pregnancies pose significant risks for developing postpartum mental health issues. The findings highlight the necessity for enhanced support systems for employed women post-delivery, focusing on addressing occupational stress to better manage and prevent PPD and anxiety. Future research should prioritize longitudinal studies that investigate these relationships across diverse populations to inform effective maternal mental health policies and practices.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the main focus of the research study?

The study investigates the relationship between demographic characteristics, pregnancy intentions, postpartum depression (PPD), and anxiety among women after childbirth in Zarand City, Iran.

What were the key findings regarding PPD and anxiety?

Employed women, those with low gestational age, food insecurity, unintended pregnancies, or cesarean deliveries were at increased risk for PPD and postpartum anxiety. In contrast, those with several deliveries had lower risk for both conditions.

How was the study conducted and what was the sample size?

This cross-sectional study involved 400 women who visited health centers in Zarand City from January to June 2018, focusing on women four weeks to six months postpartum.

What recommendations does the research make based on its findings?

The research suggests that there is a need for enhanced social and governmental support for employed women post-delivery to help mitigate occupational stress and reduce instances of postpartum depression and anxiety.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Demographics, Pregnancy Attempts, and Postpartum Depression in Women”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Depression:
Depression is a serious mental health condition that can manifest after childbirth as postpartum depression (PPD). It negatively affects mothers' emotional well-being, bonding with infants, and overall family dynamics. Understanding its risk factors, particularly demographic characteristics, is essential for implementing effective interventions and support systems for new mothers.

2) Anxiety:
Anxiety can significantly impact pregnant women, potentially leading to postpartum anxiety after childbirth. High anxiety levels are linked with various risks such as unintended pregnancies and complications during delivery, indicating a need for comprehensive mental health support. Assessing and addressing anxiety in expecting mothers is crucial for positive maternal and infant outcomes.

3) Study (Studying):
The study mentioned investigates the relationship between demographic factors and the prevalence of postpartum depression and anxiety in women. Research in this domain is vital for understanding how various elements affect maternal mental health and offers insights into prevention and treatment strategies, ultimately enhancing the well-being of mothers and their families.

4) Food:
Food security is a significant aspect of maternal health. The study demonstrates a correlation between food insecurity and higher risks of postpartum depression and anxiety. Ensuring proper nutrition during and after pregnancy is essential for both maternal mental health and fetal development, thereby underscoring the importance of addressing food-related issues in healthcare.

5) Table:
Tables within research studies provide a clear and organized summary of data findings, helping to convey complex quantitative information efficiently. In this context, tables present demographic characteristics, depression, and anxiety levels among participants, allowing for a straightforward comparison of results and facilitating better understanding and analysis of study outcomes.

6) Birth:
Birth marks a significant transition in a woman's life, often accompanied by challenges like postpartum depression and anxiety. The study examines how aspects such as delivery type (vaginal or cesarean) and gestational age impact maternal mental health. This knowledge is crucial for developing supportive healthcare practices around childbirth.

7) Pregnant:
Pregnant women are vulnerable to various health issues, including anxiety and depression. The study highlights the prevalence of these conditions among Iranian mothers, emphasizing the significance of mental health support during pregnancy. Understanding the factors contributing to these conditions can help develop effective interventions tailored to the needs of pregnant women.

8) Family:
Family dynamics play a crucial role in maternal mental health. The study indicates that postpartum depression and anxiety can affect not only the mother but also the infant and overall family relationships. Supporting family structures is essential for improving maternal mental health outcomes, fostering better family cohesion, and ensuring healthy child development.

9) Developing:
Developing countries often face unique challenges regarding maternal and infant health, including high rates of postpartum depression. The study focuses on Iranian women, shedding light on how socio-economic factors, cultural norms, and healthcare access in developing regions can influence maternal mental health, guiding public health initiatives to address these concerns.

10) Life:
Life transitions, especially after childbirth, can be profoundly challenging for women. The study aims to explore how various factors affect postpartum depression and anxiety, contributing to the broader understanding of maternal mental health issues. Accepting and addressing these life changes is essential for supporting new mothers effectively.

11) Mental health:
Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being, which is particularly crucial during and after pregnancy. The study underscores the need to prioritize mental health care for new mothers, as untreated conditions like postpartum depression can lead to severe consequences for mothers and infants, highlighting the need for proactive healthcare measures.

12) Quality:
Quality of life is deeply impacted by mental health conditions such as postpartum depression and anxiety. The study’s findings suggest that addressing these issues is essential for improving the quality of life for mothers and their families, indicating a need for integrated healthcare support that considers both physical and mental well-being.

13) Science (Scientific):
Scientific research serves as the foundation for understanding complex issues such as postpartum depression and anxiety. The study employs rigorous methodologies to examine the relationship between demographic characteristics and these mental health conditions, contributing valuable data that can inform future research, healthcare practices, and policies to improve maternal health outcomes.

14) Ghana:
Ghana, as a developing country, faces its unique challenges related to maternal health, including postpartum depression and anxiety. Insights from studies focussing on Ghanaian women can inform public health policies, offering tailored support and resources to address the socio-economic and cultural factors influencing maternal mental health in the region.

15) Sam (Sham):
Although 'Sham' may signify deception in many contexts, in maternal health research, it could refer to false perceptions or misconceptions regarding postpartum depression. Addressing stigmas surrounding mental health, especially in relation to perceived societal norms, is essential in order to encourage women to seek help and acknowledge their experiences.

16) Pain:
Pain during and after childbirth can significantly influence a mother's mental health. The study suggests that the type of delivery and associated physical pain may correlate with higher levels of postpartum depression and anxiety. Acknowledging and managing pain is crucial for enhancing maternal recovery and emotional support postpartum.

17) Education:
Education is a crucial factor influencing maternal mental health, as it often correlates with awareness of health resources and coping strategies. The study looks at the educational backgrounds of mothers, drawing conclusions on how education may affect postpartum depression and anxiety levels, emphasizing the need for targeted educational interventions.

18) Chang:
Chang refers to an author mentioned in the study's references who contributed to the understanding of maternal mental health. Their research provides insights into how prenatal depression correlates with low birth weight, linking maternal mental health directly to significant health outcomes for infants, which can guide health policies and interventions.

19) Rules:
Rules in healthcare contexts often encompass guidelines for managing maternal health and postpartum depression. Establishing clear protocols for screening and intervention can help address mental health issues among new mothers, as the study indicates that adherence to evidence-based practices is essential for improving health outcomes in postpartum populations.

20) Fear:
Fear related to childbirth and motherhood can lead to increased anxiety and depression among new mothers. The study highlights how unintended pregnancies amplify feelings of fear and anxiety, suggesting the need for comprehensive prenatal and postnatal care that addresses these fears and fosters a supportive environment for mothers.

21) Activity:
Physical activity is an important aspect of overall health that can influence mental well-being. The study suggests that postpartum physical activity may mitigate some depression and anxiety symptoms. Encouraging regular exercise in new mothers can contribute to improved mental health outcomes and better overall recovery after childbirth.

22) Training:
Training for healthcare professionals on recognizing and responding to postpartum depression is essential. The study emphasizes that appropriate training can ensure that healthcare providers effectively support mothers experiencing mental health challenges, fostering a more responsive healthcare environment that addresses both physical and mental health during the postpartum period.

23) Disease:
Disease, particularly those related to mental health, significantly impacts postpartum women's experiences. The study investigates the associations between demographic factors and postpartum depression, highlighting the importance of understanding and treating mental health diseases to improve maternal care and to prevent long-term health consequences for mothers and families.

24) Weaver:
Weaver is another author referenced in the study who is involved in the discourse surrounding mental health, particularly in the context of maternal health. Their contributions to research help build a comprehensive understanding of the link between maternal experiences, including food insecurity and postpartum depression, guiding future interventions and healthcare policy improvements.

25) Cancer:
While cancer is typically not directly related to postpartum depression, health conditions and serious illnesses can exacerbate mental health challenges for new mothers. The psychological impact of any chronic illness, including cancer, can lead to heightened anxiety and depression risk in postpartum women, necessitating comprehensive support in healthcare settings.

26) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma refers to another author in the study, contributing to the discourse on antidepressant efficacy for postpartum depression. Their research helps illustrate the complexities of treating maternal mental health issues, guiding evidence-based practices and policies for improving mental healthcare for mothers suffering from postpartum conditions.

27) Reason:
Understanding the reasons behind postpartum depression and anxiety is critical for developing effective interventions. The study aims to uncover demographic and situational factors that can contribute to these mental health issues, providing essential knowledge to healthcare providers to tailor support and resources to those at risk.

28) Joshi (Josi):
Joshi is yet another author mentioned in the research references, contributing to the overall understanding of maternal mental health. Their studies provide vital insights that establish connections between socio-economic factors and postpartum mental health conditions, influencing public health policies aimed at supporting mothers in diverse contexts.

29) Kabir:
Kabir refers to an author referenced within the context of maternal health research. Their contributions focus on understanding the prevalence and factors affecting postpartum depression. This information aids in shaping appropriate healthcare responses and interventions, ultimately enhancing support for mothers during the postpartum period.

30) Sahi:
Shahi is an author acknowledged in the literature concerning maternal mental health, particularly postpartum depression. Their research findings offer vital contributions to understanding the interplay between socioeconomic factors and mental health outcomes, thus informing better practices and policies aimed at helping mothers experience healthier transitions into parenthood.

31) Agriculture:
Agriculture can influence maternal health indirectly through its effects on community stability and food security. Economic factors, including those tied to agricultural productivity, can affect nutritional status and maternal mental health, as highlighted in the study through the association between food insecurity and postpartum depression outcomes.

32) Discussion:
The discussion section of the study synthesizes research findings and places them in context, examining implications for maternal health practices. Here, various factors influencing postpartum depression and anxiety are analyzed to provide strategic recommendations for healthcare interventions aimed at improving postpartum support for mothers.

33) Relative:
Relative relationships are crucial for maternal support during and after pregnancy. The study highlights how family dynamics can contribute to or alleviate the risk of postpartum depression and anxiety, stressing the need for strong familial systems to support mothers in their transition to motherhood.

34) Post:
Post refers to the period following childbirth when women may experience significant psychological challenges such as postpartum depression and anxiety. The study highlights the significance of this period in understanding maternal mental health, urging for enhanced support and intervention strategies to ensure mothers' well-being in the post-delivery phase.

35) Drug:
Drug use during pregnancy can have implications for maternal mental health. The study highlights that certain medications may impact postpartum depression levels. Understanding the relationship between drug use and mental health can guide healthcare providers in developing safer treatment plans for new mothers undergoing mental health issues.

36) Male:
Gender influences experiences of postpartum depression; the study suggests that dissatisfaction with newborn gender can heighten maternal anxiety and depression risks. Exploring male offspring preferences illustrates the cultural pressures faced by mothers, providing important insights into how gender perceptions can impact maternal mental health outcomes.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Demographics, Pregnancy Attempts, and Postpartum Depression in Women’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Depression, Anxiety, Pregnant women, Pregnancy, Urban area, Educational level, Developing countries, Inclusion and exclusion criteria, World Health Organization, Social Support, Silent killer, Cross-sectional study, Quantitative analysis, Chi square test, Marital Status, Gestational age, Odds ratio, Confounding variables, Significant correlation, Odds ratio (OR), Vaginal delivery, Cesarean delivery, Consent Form, Risk factor, Asian countries, Depression and anxiety, Major depression, Demographic information, Anxiety prevalence, Harmful Effect, Postpartum depression, Developed and developing countries, Type of delivery, Research units, Food insecurity, Binary Logistic Regression, Monitoring system, Health centre, Community Health Centre, Studied population, P-value less than 0.05, Depressive and anxiety symptoms, Demographic characteristic.

Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.

Inappropriate time, Third world, Family relationship.

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