Antenatal depressive symptoms increase the likelihood of preterm birth

Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2012 Oct;207(4):329.e1-4. doi: 10.1016/j.ajog.2012.06.033. Epub 2012 Jul 11.

Abstract

Objective: We evaluated the relationship between antenatal depressive symptoms and preterm birth.

Study design: Patients completed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale between 24-28 weeks of gestation. A score ≥ 12 (or thoughts of self-harm) indicated an at-risk woman. Symptomatic women were compared to risk-negative patients for relevant demography, historical variables, and pregnancy outcome.

Results: After screening 14,175 women we found a screen positive rate of 9.1% (n = 1298). At-risk women had a significant increase in preterm birth at <37, <34, <32, and <28 weeks of gestation. Multivariable analysis adjusting for maternal age, race/ethnicity, prior preterm delivery, and insurance status revealed a persistent association between antenatal depressive symptoms and preterm birth (adjusted odds ratio, 1.3; 95% confidence interval, 1.09-1.35), which was also observed after multiple gestations were excluded from the analysis (odds ratio, 1.7; 95% confidence interval, 1.38-1.99).

Conclusion: In this large cohort of prenatally screened women, those with depressive symptoms had an increased likelihood of preterm birth.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cohort Studies
  • Depression / complications*
  • Depression / diagnosis
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Premature
  • Maternal Age
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Premature Birth / etiology*
  • Premature Birth / psychology
  • Surveys and Questionnaires