2002 International International Biennial Scientific Meeting

THE IMPACT OF MAJOR LIFE EVENTS AND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT, BOTH ANTENALLY AND POSTNATALLY ON MATERNAL HEALTH: PRELIMINARY FINDINGS

Saint K, Austin M-P, Hadzi-Pavlovic D, and Parker G.

Royal Hospital for Women, School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales

k.saint@unsw.edu.au

Aim: To evaluate the relationship between antenatal and postnatal maternal emotional support, and the likelihood of onset of postnatal depression.

Methods: At 26-36 weeks gestation, we measured current emotional support from mother and partner and anticipated emotional support postnatally (using an Antenatal Risk Questionnaire). We also measured personality and temperament (using a Personality Questionnaire) and the risk of onset of post-natal depression (using the Edinburgh Post-Natal Depression Scale). Subsequently, at seven months postnatally, we measured the perceived emotional support received and the rate of postnatal depression (using the EPDS). Those with a score above 12 on the EPDS had a diagnostic interview administered (Composite International Diagnostic Interview).

Results (prospective): We anticipate having data for over 250 women at the time of presentation. Association between personality, life events, anticipated and received emotional support will be examined, as well as a their relationship with post-natal depression and obstetric outcomes.

Conclusion: The psychological factors of emotional support predisposing to the development of postnatal depression will be discussed at the time of presentation, as a result of completion of analysis of preliminary findings.