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Pregnancy intent and perinatal depression in HIV-positive and HIV-negative women
Thesis

Pregnancy intent and perinatal depression in HIV-positive and HIV-negative women

Alice Chen
Master of Public Health (M.P.H.), Drexel University
Jun 2012
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/etd-4019
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Chen_Alice_2012356.78 kB
PDF Project Access upon request, Email title, URL, or DOI to archives@drexel.edu
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Chen_Alice_2012_Suppl1307.82 kB
PDF (supplemental) Poster Access upon request, Email title, URL, or DOI to archives@drexel.edu

Abstract

HIV Perinatal Depression Pregnancy Public Health
Background & Objectives: Depression during the perinatal period (during pregnancy and 12 months post-partum) has been linked to poor prenatal behavior and adverse developmental outcomes for the child. Co-occurrence of HIV and depression is a health concern for pregnant HIV-positive women. Pregnancy intent has been identified as a potential risk factor for perinatal depression. This study examined pregnancy planning, timing, wantedness, and feelings about the pregnancy as predictors for depressive symptoms. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted from June 2009 to the present using a structured interview questionnaire administered to pregnant women seeking care at the Women's Care Center at the Drexel University College of Medicine; data on HIV status, social support and pregnancy intent was collected. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) was used to assess depressive symptoms. Results: Pregnancy intent was associated with potential depressive symptoms in pregnant women. Women were more likely to score higher on the CES-D if they reported that their pregnancy came too soon, wanted to avoid getting pregnant, and/or felt unhappy about their pregnancy. HIV-positive women wanted to avoid getting pregnant more than HIV-negative women. Prenatal HIV status may predict for post-partum CES-D score; prenatal wantedness of the pregnancy may predict for post-partum CES-D score before adjusting for emotional and instrumental support from the woman's partner. Conclusion: Prenatal care clinics should continue to offer mental health services for HIV-positive women with unintended pregnancies. Clinics should identify all women with depressive symptoms in the prenatal period and encourage them to return to the clinic for perinatal care.

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