Depressive Symptoms and Influencing Factors in Low-Risk Mothers.

INTRODUCTION: Depressive symptoms burden not only postpartum women, but can also compromise partner relationships and mother-infant interactions. With approximately 15% of women affected by perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) each year, maternity care providers must be sensitive to personal characteristics and complaints that influence women's potential to develop postpartum depression (PPD). The purpose of the study was to identify personal characteristics and modifiable factors associated with depressive symptoms in low-risk postpartum women.

METHODS: A descriptive, correlational design was used to identify predictors of depressive symptoms among mothers who were considered to be at low risk for PPD. Self-report data related to mood, stress, sleep disturbance, and fatigue were collected near the sixth week post-delivery from women (N = 62) in a southern US state.

RESULTS: The levels of stress and reports of sleep disturbance approached clinical concern in the low-risk sample (n = 62), in addition to being positively correlated depressive symptoms. Cesarean delivery was also associated with increased depressive symptoms and predictive of depression symptoms when combined with perceived chronic stress, sleep disturbance, and fatigue.

DISCUSSION: The findings underscore the importance of assessing maternal mental health and adjustment during the postpartum period. While some mothers may not report depressive symptoms at post-delivery visits, they may be experiencing symptoms that predispose them to a mood disorder. Using a more holistic approach to postpartum care, with concern for both physical and mental well-being, may be a necessary shift to promote health in new mothers and families.