Fear of childbirth and obstetrical events as predictors of postnatal symptoms of depression and post-traumatic stress disorder

Abstract

This prospective study examined psychological and obstetrical predictors of enduring postpartum symptoms of depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Contrary to prediction, prenatal fear of childbirth did not significantly predict symptoms of depression or post-traumatic stress disorder at one month postpartum, but anxiety sensitivity was an unexpected predictor that merits further investigation. Several obstetrical and neonatal variables significantly predicted symptoms of post-traumatic disorder, but not depression.

Keywords:

• Pregnancy
• childbirth
• post-traumatic stress disorder
• depression