[Predictors of postpartum depression: prospective cohort study]

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Perinatal Mental Health
• Psychological Research

Context:

• Investigating recall bias in reporting antepartum variables at postpartum periods.
• Assessing predictors of postpartum depression (PPD).
• Utilizing a prospective cohort design with 215 women.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the accuracy of recalling antepartum information during the postpartum period.
• To identify key factors predicting the onset of postpartum depression.
• To inform the development of targeted antenatal and postpartum care strategies.

Summary:

• Recall bias for antepartum variables measured postpartum was low (κ=.55-.95).
• Postpartum depression rates were high (36.3%-36.7%).
• Prenatal depression, low social support, maternity blues, child care stress, and pregnancy intendedness were significant predictors of PPD.

Impact:

• Findings underscore the reliability of postpartum recall for antepartum data.
• Identifies critical risk factors for PPD, enabling early screening and intervention.
• Supports the implementation of prenatal education and counseling to mitigate PPD risk.