Predictors of postpartum depression in threatened preterm labour: Importance of psychosocial factors

Background

Postpartum depression (PPD) is more common in high-risk pregnancies. One of the main causes of high-risk pregnancy is threatened preterm labour (TPL), a stressful event which involves psychological consequences for the mother. The objective of this study was to identify those psychosocial factors that may imply a greater risk of PPD in TPL women.

Material and methods

A prospective cohort study was carried out, consisting of a sample of 149 pregnant women who suffered from a TPL during pregnancy, and 61 controls. At the time of inclusion, demographic, obstetric, biological, and psychosocial variables were collected. At 3 months postpartum, depressive symptoms were evaluated along with their predictive factors.

Results

Women who suffered TPL showed higher scores in depressive symptomatology (F (1, 208) = 7.46, p = .007), as well as higher probability of PPD diagnosis than controls (χ² (1) = 8.05, p = 005). Higher maternal age (+.335), lower educational level (−2.15), history of trauma (+.28) and higher trait anxiety scores (+.314) were the main predictors of PPD after TPL.

Conclusions

Experiencing TPL during pregnancy, carries a higher risk of PPD. This risk is mediated by sociodemographic and psychological factors related to chronic stress. The detection of these potentially modifiable risk factors in pregnant women after experiencing TPL would help prevent PPD and improve the maternal–infant prognosis.