Positive Depression Screening at the First Prenatal Visit in a Low-Income Primarily Black Population

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Psychiatry
• Public Health

Background:

• High rates of race disparities in infant and maternal mortality exist in underserved regions.
• Mental health services integration into prenatal care is crucial for vulnerable populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the prevalence of positive depression screens at the first prenatal visit.
• To identify factors associated with positive depression screens in an urban, low-income, primarily Black population.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional chart review of 500 patients.
• Utilized the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) for screening.
• Collected demographic and medical history data.

Main Results:

• 32% of 414 patients with completed EPDS screened positive for depression.
• Positive screens were associated with smoking, illicit drug use, and pre-existing mental health conditions (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder).
• Women with prior pregnancies and positive screens were more likely to have a history of postpartum depression.

Conclusions:

• A high prevalence of positive depression screens was observed in this vulnerable population.
• There is a critical need to strengthen mental health services within prenatal care settings.
• Early identification and intervention are essential for improving maternal mental health outcomes.