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Published on: June 13, 2021
Psychological support and postpartum depression in twin gestations: a prospective analysis using the Edinburgh Scale
Magda Spinello Consul da Silva1, Gustavo Yano Callado2, Edward Araujo Júnior1
1Universidade Federal de São Paulo Escola Paulista de Medicina Department of Obstetrics São PauloSP Brazil Department of Obstetrics, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
Women with twin pregnancies face a high risk of postpartum depression (PPD), especially with complications. Psychodynamic prenatal care may offer benefits, but more research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal mental health
- Maternal-fetal medicine
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Twin pregnancies are associated with increased risks for both maternal and neonatal complications.
- Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant concern affecting maternal well-being.
- Limited research exists on PPD specifically in twin pregnancies and the impact of complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the risk of postpartum depression (PPD) in women with twin pregnancies using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS).
- To explore associations between maternal and neonatal complications and depressive symptoms during the postpartum period.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, mixed-methods study at a Multiple Pregnancy Outpatient Clinic.
- Fourteen women with twin pregnancies received psychodynamic psychological prenatal care.
- EPDS screening for PPD (scores ≥13), with correlational analyses of EPDS scores and obstetric/perinatal variables.
Main Results:
- High prevalence of depressive symptoms: 28.6% probable PPD, 21.4% mild risk.
- Higher EPDS scores linked to intrapartum hemorrhage, low APGAR, cesarean delivery, and NICU admission.
- Breastfeeding associated with lower depressive symptoms; psychodynamic support showed potential emotional benefits.
Conclusions:
- Women with twin pregnancies have an elevated PPD risk, exacerbated by obstetric and neonatal complications.
- Routine mental health screening and psychodynamic prenatal care are recommended for high-risk pregnancies.
- Further research with larger samples is needed to confirm findings and refine preventive strategies.
