Prenatal depression, violence, substance use, and perception of support in pregnant middle-class women.
The purpose of this study was to explore the vulnerability for postpartum depression among financially, educationally, and socially advantaged middle-class women (n = 31). Twenty-nine percent reported prenatal depression, 13% reported intimate partner violence, and 22% reported concerns with partner relationships and support expectations after delivery. No illegal substances were reported; however, a past history of smoking and excessive use of caffeine was disclosed. Implications for practice focus on the need to screen and implement intervention programs for these social problems and to adopt measures as a universal standard of care for all women, regardless of demographic advantages.
Anderson
Cheryl
C
C heryl A nderson is an assistant professor in the School of Nursing at the University of Texas at Arlington. She is also an advanced nurse practitioner in maternal child health.
Roux
Gayle
G
Pruitt
Alicia
A