Early detection of perinatal depression in couples: a single-center prospective study

• Published in: European psychiatry 2024-09, Vol.67 (1), p.e48, Article e48
• Main Authors: Paria, Anne, Atallah, Anthony, Nourredine, Mikail, Dubernard, Gil, Joubert, Fanny, Landel, Verena, Viaux-Savelon, Sylvie, De la Fournière, Benoit
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; couple; Couples; Depression, Postpartum - diagnosis; Depression, Postpartum - epidemiology; Depression, Postpartum - psychology; Early Diagnosis; early postnatal visit; early prenatal visit; Female; Hospitals; Humans; Male; Medical personnel; Medical records; Medical screening; Mental depression; perinatal depression; Postpartum depression; Postpartum period; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Complications - diagnosis; Pregnancy Complications - psychology; Professions; Prospective Studies; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales - standards; Questionnaires; Risk Factors; Spouses - psychology; Womens health
• ISSN: 0924-9338; 1778-3585; 1778-3585
• DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2024.1755

This prospective study aimed to assess couples' psychological status during the perinatal period to identify those at risk for postpartum depression. Conducted at Lyon University Hospital from March to July 2022, the study enrolled pregnant women without progressive psychiatric disorders or obstetric risk factors, and their partners. Participants completed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) at three points: during the 9th month of pregnancy, immediate postpartum, and 6-8 weeks after delivery. A score ≥10 on the EPDS indicated depression risk. A score ≥10 on the EPDS indicate depression risk. The primary endpoint was EPDS scores throughout the perinatal period. Ninety-five couples participated; 96% of patients and 68% of partners completed pre-delivery questionnaires, 81% and 71% during maternity stay, and 64% and 46% postpartum, respectively. Overall, 15% of patients and 1% of partners had EPDS scores >10 in the postpartum period. Psychiatric history and emergency cesarean sections were associated with higher immediate postpartum EPDS scores in patients [Beta 3.7 points, 95% CI 0.91; 6.4 and Beta 5.2 points, 2.2; 8.1, respectively]. Episiotomy was associated with higher EPDS scores in partners. No significant association between the different factors studied and the EPDS score was found at 6-8 weeks postpartum in patients nor their partners. While specific risk factors for persistent perinatal depression in couples were not identified, a notable proportion of patients exhibited high EPDS scores. Screening all couples during prepartum and postpartum periods is crucial, regardless of identified risk factors.