The PERINATAL DEPRESSION It is the set of mental disorders, mainly depression, that occur during pregnancy and up to twelve months after childbirth.
Perinatal depression not only has an impact on the woman, it also affects the baby, the family and society in general, which makes its identification and treatment a public health priority.
According to data from the General Council of Psychology of Spain, it is estimated that approximately one in five women develops a mental disorder during pregnancy and/or in the year following childbirth. In Spain, specifically, the prevalence of depressive symptoms during pregnancy is between 14-15% and 23.4%, and in the postpartum period between 21.7% and 30.3%. The prevalence of major depression ranges from around 4-5% in pregnancy and from 7.7% to 14.8% in the postnatal period.
some of the symptoms most common are:
- Sadness (crying easily or more than normal).
- Not finding pleasure in activities or experiences that were previously enjoyed.
- Lack of energy or motivation.
- Worry excessively.
- Difficulty sleeping, concentrating, or making decisions.
- Abnormal appetite.
- Feelings of guilt, hopelessness, worthlessness.
- Discomfort or body pain without a clear physical cause.
As for the risk factor’sVarious studies have shown that the main factors are the presence of a history of mental health problems, as well as the existence of physical or sexual abuse.
Other variables that also influence are the baby’s health problems, marital dissatisfaction, low socioeconomic and educational level, ethnic minorities, stress, tendency to worry, excessive improvement and even ambivalence towards motherhood, that is, , the coexistence of positive feelings. and negatives associated with being a mother. In the case of adolescent women, family criticism and self-esteem criticism should be highlighted.
Adapted infographic. Source: Guide for the integration of perinatal mental health in maternal and child health services.
The preventive interventions in perinatal mental health are aimed at reducing risk factors and promoting/enhancing protective factors.
Adapted infographic. Source: Guide for the integration of perinatal mental health in maternal and child health services.
The evidence suggests promoting healthy lifestyles, especially physical exercise. Furthermore, they recommend psychoeducational interventions such as general information about pregnancy, birth plan and motherhood (adjust expectations, work through myths, verify questions and answers, clarify concepts). Evidence is also demonstrated for interventions that point to promotion of emotional and instrumental social support.
In the specific case of pregnant women who present risk factors and/or symptoms of depression, the latest studies recommend, first of all, the application of psychological interventions such as
cognitive behavioral therapy and the interpersonal therapy. Secondly, psychosocial interventions are recommended, either at the individual or group level, during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Sources and links of interest:
General Council of Psychology of Spain: Psychology in the approach to perinatal depression: COP consensus report (infocop.es)
National Institute of Mental Health: Perinatal Depression
WHO: Guide for the integration of perinatal mental health in maternal and child health services
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