Factors associated with a positive depression screen after a miscarriage

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Mental Health
• Obstetrics and Gynecology

Background:

• Miscarriage is a common pregnancy complication with a high incidence of positive depression screening in the studied population.
• Existing research on factors associated with post-miscarriage depression varies across populations, with a lack of studies in the specific region.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify factors associated with a positive depression screen among women experiencing miscarriage at Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi.
• To provide region-specific data on the prevalence and predictors of depression after miscarriage.

Main Methods:

• Patients were recruited at their two-week clinic review following a miscarriage.
• The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was used for depression screening.
• Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to identify associated factors.

Main Results:

• A positive depression screen was detected in 34.1% of patients.
• Univariate analysis showed education level and mode of conception were significant.
• Multivariate analysis identified age, education level, gestation at miscarriage, marital status, prior miscarriage, and mode of conception as impacting depression screening.

Conclusions:

• Factors associated with positive depression screening include younger age, lower education, later gestation at miscarriage, single marital status, assisted conception, and a history of prior miscarriage.
• These identified factors can potentially be used for triaging women post-miscarriage to identify those at higher risk for depression.
• The findings highlight the need for targeted mental health support for women experiencing miscarriage.