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Obstetric complications and subsequent risk of mood disorders for offspring in adulthood: a comprehensive overview

Marta Serati1, Vincenzo Bertino1, Maria Rosaria Malerba1

  • 1Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.

Nordic Journal of Psychiatry
|April 17, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Obstetric complications during birth may increase the risk of adult mood disorders. Low birth weight and preterm birth are linked to major depressive disorder (MDD), but more research is needed.

Area of Science:

  • Perinatal Medicine
  • Psychiatry
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Obstetric complications (OCs) are increasingly recognized as potential risk factors for adult psychiatric conditions.
  • Existing literature suggests a link between OCs and mood disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review existing literature on the association between perinatal OCs and the future risk of adult mood disorders, specifically major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD).

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive literature search was conducted across major scientific databases.
  • The review focused on studies examining OCs (using scales like Lewis-Murray) and their correlation with adult mood disorder development.

Main Results:

  • Evidence suggests low birth weight (LBW) and preterm birth are potential risk factors for developing MDD later in life.
  • Some supporting studies have limitations, including small sample sizes or retrospective designs.

Conclusions:

  • Perinatal OCs may contribute to an increased risk of adult mood disorders.
  • Further research is required to confirm these preliminary findings and explore the role of other obstetric and neonatal complications in mood disorder onset.

Keywords:
Obstetric complicationsbipolar disordermajor depressive disorderoverview

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