An international society for the understanding, prevention and treatment of mental illness related to child bearing.

Functional Status At 24 Weeks Postpartum Of Women With Postnatal Depression

Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Sydney, Nepean Hospital.

Stuart J. Johnstone, Philip M. Boyce, Anthea R. Hickey, Allen D. Morris-Yates, Meredith G. Harris, and Trish Strachan.

Department of Psychological Medicine, Clinical Sciences Building, Nepean Hospital, P.O. Box 63, Penrith NSW 2751. Phone: 02 4724 2435, Facsimile: 02 4724 3343, Email: johnsts@wahs.health.nsw.gov.au

This study examined the effect of postnatal depression, age, and parity on eight indicators of functional status, as assessed by the SF-36 self-report questionnaire, at 24 weeks postpartum, with a prospective cohort design. 424 postpartum women completed the SF-36, a self-report questionnaire designed to assess functioning and well-being. 54 women (12.7%) were classified as depressed (i.e. scored >12 on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale) at eight weeks postpartum. At twenty four weeks postpartum, women with depression were impaired on five of eight SF-36 dimensions (Role Limitations due to Physical and Emotional Problems, Social Functioning, Mental health, and Vitality) while women not suffering from depression were impaired in two dimensions only (Role Limitations due to Emotional Problems and Vitality) in comparison to age-appropriate Australian normative data. Depressed and non-depressed postpartum women differed from each other on six SF-36 dimensions (Role Limitations due to Physical and Emotional Problems, Social Functioning, Bodily Pain, Mental Health, and Vitality). Role Limitations due to Physical Problems were more impaired in first-time than multiparous mothers who were depressed, with parity difference for non-depressed women. It is concluded that some declines in functional status are associated with the postpartum period generally, but postnatal depression detrimentally effects many other aspects of the postpartum women's health.

About Us

test parenting

A brief summary of the history and future directions of The Marcé Society.

Subscribe

test join

Become a member of the Marcé Society today by subscribing with an annual membership.

Where Do I Find Help?

artwork tree small

If you are experiencing distress, please contact your doctor or go to your nearest hospital. The following links may be useful resources.

2021 Choir Performance

Contact

ABN

17 097 752 737

ACN

097 752 737