Family relationships and depressive symptoms preceding induced abortion

This study examines the association between depressive symptoms preceding induced abortion and dissatisfaction with family relationships. In a cross-sectional survey, 304 women undergoing a first-trimester abortion completed a short version of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, the Family APGAR, and a researcher-designed questionnaire. Bivariate analyses revealed that depressive symptoms decreased as measures of age, educational attainment, Family APGAR scores, marriage, and subjective health increased. Depressive symptoms increased as measures of denial, difficulties communicating with male partners, pregnancy symptoms, contraceptive use, and dissatisfaction with choosing abortion increased. Controlling for the effects of these significant bivariate associations, increased depressive symptoms were independently predicted by Family APGAR scores, age, communications difficulties, pregnancy symptoms, contraceptive use, and denial. Low Family APGAR scores exhibited the strongest overall effect. Clinicians who encounter women experiencing depressive symptoms preceding abortion may wish to explore family relationships and the possibility of underlying family dysfunction.