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Interpregnancy intervals and behavioural outcomes in children: A population-based longitudinal study

Berihun A Dachew1, Gizachew A Tessema2, Getinet Ayano3

  • 1School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Australia; EnAble Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Australia.

Journal of Psychiatric Research
|October 5, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Short interpregnancy intervals (less than 6 months) are linked to increased conduct and hyperactivity issues in children. This study explored the mental health impact of short intervals between pregnancies.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Health
  • Child Psychology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Physical health impacts of short interpregnancy intervals (IPIs) are known, but mental health effects are understudied.
  • Investigating IPIs' association with child behavioral outcomes is crucial for understanding developmental impacts.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the relationship between short interpregnancy intervals (IPIs) and behavioral outcomes in children.
  • To assess these associations across four developmental time points from age 7 to 16.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) cohort.
  • Assessed behavioral problems using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) in over 2300 mother-child pairs.
  • Employed Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) to analyze associations between IPIs and behavioral outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Children born after short IPIs (<6 months) showed increased odds of total behavioral difficulties (OR 1.54), conduct problems (OR 1.42), and hyperactivity/inattention (OR 1.37) compared to IPIs of 18-23 months.
  • No significant associations were found between short IPIs and emotional symptoms, peer-relationship problems, or pro-social behavior.

Conclusions:

  • Short interpregnancy intervals (<6 months) are associated with externalizing behavioral problems (conduct, hyperactivity/inattention) in children.
  • The study found no link between short IPIs and internalizing problems (emotional, peer-relationship issues).
  • Further research is needed to confirm these findings and explore underlying mechanisms.
Abstract

Keywords:
ALSPACBehavioural outcomesInterpregnancy intervalsLongitudinal studiesOffspring

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