Effects of Antenatal Depression and Antenatal Characteristics of Pregnant Women on Birth Outcomes: A Prospective Cohort Study

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study was done to evaluate the effects of antenatal depression on birth outcomes. METHODS: The participants were 255 pregnant women who were followed in a prospective study. Of these, 197 cases were examined included birth weight, Apgar scores at 5 minute, premature contraction, complication of labor, delivery types and laboratory data. Descriptive statistics, ANOVA, Chi square test of linear by linear association, Kruskal Wallis test, Relative Risk, univariate and adjusted multiple logistic regression were used for data analysis with SPSS/Win. RESULTS: Level of antenatal depression was associated with low birth weight (chi2=7.69, p=.010). High risk pregnancy was a predictor of low birth weight (OR=6.98 [1.21-40.30]) and baby's weight (OR=2.12, [1.05-4.28]). Prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) was a predictor of complications in labor (OR=3.59, [1.03-12.48]). But there were no significant effects of antenatal depression on other birth outcomes. CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicate that women with antenatal depression, high risk pregnancy, prepregnancy BMI> or =23 kg/M2 should be monitored and managed to ensure favorable birth outcomes.