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Prenatal Depression Risk Factors, Developmental Effects and Interventions: A Review
1University of Miami/Miller School of Medicine, Fielding Graduate University, USA.
Journal of Pregnancy and Child Health
|July 14, 2017
Summary
Prenatal depression is linked to adverse outcomes for both mother and child. Effective interventions include psychotherapy, peer support, and exercise, highlighting the need for screening.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal mental health
- Developmental psychology
- Reproductive psychiatry
Background:
- Prenatal depression, also known as antenatal depression, affects maternal and infant well-being.
- Risk factors encompass demographic, psychosocial, and physiological elements.
- Developmental effects span from infancy to childhood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent literature on prenatal depression.
- To identify risk factors, developmental effects, and interventions.
- To discuss underlying mechanisms and limitations.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of PubMed and PsycInfo databases.
- Inclusion of empirical studies, reviews, and meta-analyses from the last 5 years.
- Analysis of demographic, physiological, and intervention data.
Main Results:
- Identified risk factors: lower socioeconomic status, unintended pregnancy, partner violence, and physiological markers.
- Negative effects include postpartum depression, prematurity, low birth weight, and altered infant neurodevelopment (EEG, amygdala connectivity, temperament).
- Effective interventions: interpersonal psychotherapy, peer support, massage, yoga, tai chi, and aerobic exercise; SSRIs showed potential negative effects.
Conclusions:
- Prenatal depression poses significant risks to maternal and child health.
- Non-pharmacological interventions show promise.
- Despite limitations, screening and intervention for prenatal depression are crucial.
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