Links between early post-partum mood and post-natal depression.
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was used to rate 217 patients at five days and six weeks post-partum. There was a highly significant positive correlation between the two scores, together with similar symptom profiles. Of the 25 women who suffered post-natal depression (6-week EPDS score greater than or equal to 13), 17 had similar symptoms in the first week post-partum (5-day EPDS score greater than or equal to 10). Low birth weight of the baby, delivery by Caesarean section, a delivery much more difficult than expected, and bottle feeding were all significantly associated with a high EPDS score in the first week post-partum. Bottle feeding and delivery by Caesarean section were the only factors associated with depression at the sixth week. A recollection of low mood after a previous birth was also associated with post-natal depression after the current birth. This, together with an EPDS score of 13 or more at five days post-partum, increased the risk of post-natal depression at six weeks 85-fold.
Hannah
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Bernhard Baron Memorial Research Laboratories, Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital, London.
Adams
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Lee
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Glover
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Sandler
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D000328:Adult; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008425:Maternal Behavior; D011181:Postnatal Care / Q000523:psychology*; D049590:Postpartum Period; D011644:Puerperal Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology*; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000523:psychology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires