Effects of Depression and Stress on Oral Self-care among Perinatal Women: A Longitudinal Study

Perinatal oral health care is essential for the well-being of both women and fetal health. Oral health care involves both professional and self-care. Depression or stress during the perinatal phase can reduce oral hygiene maintenance and need intervention to facilitate oral health care. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of independent and combined depression and stress on oral self-care behaviors of perinatal women in a tertiary hospital.

A total of 1234 women in the first or second trimester of pregnancy were enrolled in the interprofessional pregnancy oral health care unit. The enrolled subjects completed the depression scale, Perceived Stress Scale-10, and a self-report on oral self-care during pregnancy and 2+ years following birth.

Depression and stress were negatively associated with frequency of toothbrushing and flossing. Further, the frequency of toothbrushing and flossing was not associated with time. About one-fourth of the participants reported toothbrushing twice daily. However, a very low level of flossing was reported among the participants.

The perinatal period needs interventional strategies to promote oral hygiene. Oral health education and collaboration with the medical team can help in oral health improvement.