Preterm Labor Using Tocolysis as a Possible Risk Factor for Postpartum Depression: A 14-Year Population-Based Study...

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Perinatal Mental Health
• Pharmacovigilance

Background:

• Postpartum depression (PPD) poses significant risks to maternal and infant well-being.
• Increasing incidence of PPD necessitates investigation into contributing factors, including medications used during pregnancy.
• Limited research exists on the mental health effects of common obstetric therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between common obstetric medical therapies during labor and maternal mental stress.
• To determine if tocolytic and uterotonic medications increase the risk of postpartum depression.

Main Methods:

• A 14-year retrospective, population-based nationwide study using the National Health Insurance Research Database.
• Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed.
• Evaluation of odds ratios and confidence intervals for tocolytic and uterotonic treatments during pregnancy.

Main Results:

• Tocolysis with the injection form of ritodrine was significantly associated with a higher risk of postpartum depression (PPD) via multivariate analysis.
• Ritodrine treatment for preterm labor, particularly the injection form, emerged as a significant risk factor for PPD.
• The study supports existing evidence linking ritodrine to increased PPD risk.

Conclusions:

• Ritodrine, especially in injection form, is a significant risk factor for postpartum depression.
• Obstetricians and health policymakers should prioritize maternal mental health monitoring in high-risk pregnancies.
• Further research into medication safety during pregnancy is warranted.