Association Between Depression and the Risk of Hyperemesis Gravidarum: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Mental Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a severe pregnancy complication.
• Maternal psychological factors, including depression, may influence HG risk.
• The association between maternal depression and HG requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the association between maternal depression and the risk of HG.
• To explore how maternal or study characteristics modify this association.

Main Methods:

• A systematic meta-analysis of 13 observational case-control studies.
• Included 95,249 pregnant women.
• Pooled odds ratios using a random-effects model with heterogeneity assessment.

Main Results:

• Maternal depression was significantly associated with a higher risk of HG (OR: 5.08).
• The association was stronger in younger women (<27 years) and when depression was assessed at HG diagnosis.
• Diagnostic tools influenced the reported association strength.

Conclusions:

• Maternal depression is linked to HG occurrence.
• The association does not imply causation; depressive symptoms could be a consequence of HG.
• Further research is needed to understand the complex relationship.