Understanding Social Support and the Couple's Relationship Among Women with Depressive Symptoms in Pregnancy

Abstract

This qualitative study explored the experiences of seven couples where the female partner experienced depressive symptoms during pregnancy. Female and male partners were interviewed together and data was collected and analyzed according to Colaizzi's () phenomenological research design. The interviews yielded the following themes: (a) Challenges and stressors associated with depressive symptoms during pregnancy, (b) Pregnancy's effect on mood states, (c) Relationship dynamics that influence moods, (d) Pregnancy and the influence of mood on relationship dynamics, and (e) Reliance on external sources of support. The findings extend current research and provide insight into possibilities of how to enhance assessment and intervention for women who are depressed during pregnancy by including a relational component. Findings, clinical implications, and future research are discussed.