Pregnant women screening positive for depressive symptoms at24–28 weeks may have increased risk of preterm birth but more preciseresearch is needed

摘要

ContextThe prevalence of prenatal depression and anxiety ranges between 5% and 16% and the consequences are extensive. In addition to negative maternal effects, research points to detrimental fetal effects, and higher rates of PTB and LBW. Postpartum symptoms of depression and anxiety are often experienced by women prenatally and may lead to maternal suffering and parenting ineffectiveness. Thus, research attention to prenatal and postpartum affective symptoms and their causes is warranted.