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Broberg L, Bendix JM, Røhder K, Løkkegaard E, Væver M, Grew JC, Johnsen H, Juhl M, de Lichtenberg V, Schiøtz M. Combining the Antenatal Risk Questionnaire and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale in Early Pregnancy in Danish Antenatal Care-A Qualitative Descriptive Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:454. [PMID: 38673365 PMCID: PMC11050197 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21040454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Pregnant women with a history of mental disorders, neglect, or low social support are at increased risk of mental health problems. It is crucial to identify psychosocial risk factors in early pregnancy to reduce the risk of short- and long-term health consequences for mother and child. The Antenatal Risk Questionnaire has been found acceptable as a psychosocial screening tool among pregnant women in Australia, but it has not been tested in a Scandinavian context. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of pregnant women when using the Antenatal Risk Questionnaire and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale as part of a model to identify psychosocial vulnerabilities in pregnancy in Denmark. We conducted individual interviews (n = 18) and used thematic analysis. We identified two main themes: (1) Feeling heard and (2) An occasion for self-reflection. Overall, the pregnant women deemed the online ANRQ/EPDS acceptable as a screening tool. The screening model provided a feeling of being heard and provided an occasion for self-reflection about mental health challenges related to pregnancy and motherhood. However, some women expressed that the screening raised concerns and fear of the consequences of answering honestly. A non-judgmental, open, emphatic, and reassuring approach by clinicians may help reduce stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotte Broberg
- Center for Clinical Research and Prevention, Bispebjerg-Frederiksberg Hospital, Nordre Fasanvej 57, 2000 Frederiksberg, Denmark; (J.C.G.); (M.S.)
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Slagelse Hospital, Fælledvej 14, 4200 Slagelse, Denmark
| | - Jane M. Bendix
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital—North Zealand, Dyrehavevej 29, 3400 Hillerød, Denmark; (J.M.B.); (E.L.)
| | - Katrine Røhder
- Center for Early Intervention and Family Research, Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 2A, 1353 Copenhagen, Denmark; (K.R.); (M.V.)
| | - Ellen Løkkegaard
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital—North Zealand, Dyrehavevej 29, 3400 Hillerød, Denmark; (J.M.B.); (E.L.)
| | - Mette Væver
- Center for Early Intervention and Family Research, Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 2A, 1353 Copenhagen, Denmark; (K.R.); (M.V.)
| | - Julie C. Grew
- Center for Clinical Research and Prevention, Bispebjerg-Frederiksberg Hospital, Nordre Fasanvej 57, 2000 Frederiksberg, Denmark; (J.C.G.); (M.S.)
| | - Helle Johnsen
- Department of Midwifery and Therapeutic Science, University College Copenhagen, Sigurdsgade 26, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark; (H.J.); (M.J.); (V.d.L.)
| | - Mette Juhl
- Department of Midwifery and Therapeutic Science, University College Copenhagen, Sigurdsgade 26, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark; (H.J.); (M.J.); (V.d.L.)
| | - Vibeke de Lichtenberg
- Department of Midwifery and Therapeutic Science, University College Copenhagen, Sigurdsgade 26, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark; (H.J.); (M.J.); (V.d.L.)
| | - Michaela Schiøtz
- Center for Clinical Research and Prevention, Bispebjerg-Frederiksberg Hospital, Nordre Fasanvej 57, 2000 Frederiksberg, Denmark; (J.C.G.); (M.S.)
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Ayers S, Sinesi A, Coates R, Cheyne H, Maxwell M, Best C, McNicol S, Williams LR, Uddin N, Shakespeare J, Alderdice F. When is the best time to screen for perinatal anxiety? A longitudinal cohort study. J Anxiety Disord 2024; 103:102841. [PMID: 38367480 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2024.102841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND For screening for anxiety during pregnancy and after birth to be efficient and effective it is important to know the optimal time to screen in order to identify women who might benefit from treatment. AIMS To determine the optimal time to screen for perinatal anxiety to identify women with anxiety disorders and those who want treatment. A secondary aim was to examine the stability and course of perinatal anxiety over time. METHODS Prospective longitudinal cohort study of 2243 women who completed five screening questionnaires of anxiety and mental health symptoms in early pregnancy (11 weeks), mid-pregnancy (23 weeks), late pregnancy (32 weeks) and postnatally (8 weeks). Anxiety and mental health questionnaires were the GAD7, GAD2, SAAS, CORE-10 and Whooley questions. To establish presence of anxiety disorders diagnostic interviews were conducted with a subsample of 403 participants. RESULTS Early pregnancy was the optimal time to screen for anxiety to identify women with anxiety disorders and women wanting treatment at any time during pregnancy or postnatally. These findings were consistent across all five questionnaires of anxiety and mental health. Receiving treatment for perinatal mental health problems was most strongly associated with late pregnancy and/or postnatal assessments. Anxiety symptoms were highest in early pregnancy and decreased over time. CONCLUSION Findings show that screening in early pregnancy is optimal for identifying women who have, or develop, anxiety disorders and who want treatment. This has clear implications for practice and policy for anxiety screening during the perinatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Ayers
- Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, Northampton Square, London, UK.
| | - Andrea Sinesi
- Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professions Research Unit, Pathfoot Building, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Rose Coates
- Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, Northampton Square, London, UK
| | - Helen Cheyne
- Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professions Research Unit, Pathfoot Building, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Margaret Maxwell
- Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professions Research Unit, Pathfoot Building, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Catherine Best
- Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professions Research Unit, Pathfoot Building, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Stacey McNicol
- Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professions Research Unit, Pathfoot Building, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Louise R Williams
- Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, Northampton Square, London, UK
| | - Nazihah Uddin
- Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research, School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, Northampton Square, London, UK
| | | | - Fiona Alderdice
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, UK
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Vasilevski V, Graham K, McKay F, Dunn M, Wright M, Radelaar E, Vuillermin PJ, Sweet L. Barriers and enablers to antenatal care attendance for women referred to social work services in a Victorian regional hospital: A qualitative descriptive study. Women Birth 2024; 37:443-450. [PMID: 38246853 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2024.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women referred to social work services during pregnancy are more likely to experience social disadvantage than those who are not, resulting in reduced antenatal care attendance. Lack of antenatal care engagement leads to poor identification and management of concerns that can have immediate and long-term health consequences for women and their babies. Identifying the barriers and enablers to antenatal care attendance for women referred to social work services is important for designing models of care that promote effective engagement. AIMS This study aimed to explore the barriers and enablers to antenatal care attendance by women referred to social work services from the perspectives of women, and clinicians who provide antenatal healthcare. METHODS A qualitative descriptive study using constructivist grounded theory methods was undertaken. Ten women referred to social work services and 11 antenatal healthcare providers were purposively recruited for interviews from a regional maternity service in Victoria, Australia. FINDINGS Continuity of care and healthcare providers partnering with women were central to effective engagement with antenatal care services. Three interrelated concepts were identified: 1) experiences of the hospital environment and access to care; 2) perceptions of care influence engagement, and 3) motivations for regularly attending services. CONCLUSIONS Continuity of care is essential for supporting women referred to social work services to attend antenatal appointments. Women are better equipped to overcome other barriers to antenatal service attendance when they have a strong partnership with clinicians involved in their care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidanka Vasilevski
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research, Institute for Health Transformation, Western Health Partnership, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Kristen Graham
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research, Institute for Health Transformation, Western Health Partnership, Victoria, Australia; College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Australia; National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University
| | - Fiona McKay
- School of Health and Social Development, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthew Dunn
- School of Health and Social Development, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | - Peter J Vuillermin
- Barwon Health, Victoria, Australia; School of Medicine, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Linda Sweet
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research, Institute for Health Transformation, Western Health Partnership, Victoria, Australia
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Preis H, Whitney C, Kocis C, Lobel M. Saving time, signaling trust: Using the PROMOTE self-report screening instrument to enhance prenatal care quality and therapeutic relationships. PEC INNOVATION 2022; 1:100030. [PMID: 35465253 PMCID: PMC9020232 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2022.100030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Comprehensive screening of psychosocial vulnerabilities and substance use in prenatal care is critical to promote the health and well-being of pregnant patients. Effective implementation of new screening procedures and instruments should be accompanied by an in-depth investigation to assess their feasibility and impact on care delivery. METHODS In 2020, following implementation of the Profile for Maternal and Obstetric Treatment Effectiveness (PROMOTE) an innovative self-report screening instrument developed for outpatient prenatal clinics in the U.S., we conducted individual interviews and focus groups with twenty-two midwives, nurse practitioners, and obstetric residents focused on the PROMOTE and its impacts on care delivery. We used interpretive description for the qualitative analysis of the interviews. RESULTS Five themes were identified: Guiding Time Efficiently: "The Time I Don't Have," Preventing Missed Care, Signaling Trustworthiness, Establishing Trauma-Informed Foundations, and Promoting "Honest" Patient Disclosure. CONCLUSION Interviews suggest that patient completion of the PROMOTE before the medical encounter helps reduce previously reported barriers, is more time-effective, and makes history-taking easier. It also facilitates the patient-provider relationship. INNOVATION Findings offer insight into the breadth and depth of clinical impact resulting from the PROMOTE, and provide guidance for the implementation of such tools to optimize health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Preis
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Clare Whitney
- School of Nursing, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Christina Kocis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Marci Lobel
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
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Howard LM, Abel KM, Atmore KH, Bick D, Bye A, Byford S, Carson LE, Dolman C, Heslin M, Hunter M, Jennings S, Johnson S, Jones I, Taylor BL, McDonald R, Milgrom J, Morant N, Nath S, Pawlby S, Potts L, Powell C, Rose D, Ryan E, Seneviratne G, Shallcross R, Stanley N, Trevillion K, Wieck A, Pickles A. Perinatal mental health services in pregnancy and the year after birth: the ESMI research programme including RCT. PROGRAMME GRANTS FOR APPLIED RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.3310/ccht9881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background
It is unclear how best to identify and treat women with mental disorders in pregnancy and the year after birth (i.e. the perinatal period).
Objectives
(1) To investigate how best to identify depression at antenatal booking [work package (WP) 1]. (2) To estimate the prevalence of mental disorders in early pregnancy (WP1). (3) To develop and examine the efficacy of a guided self-help intervention for mild to moderate antenatal depression delivered by psychological well-being practitioners (WP1). (4) To examine the psychometric properties of the perinatal VOICE (Views On Inpatient CarE) measure of service satisfaction (WP3). (5) To examine the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of services for women with acute severe postnatal mental disorders (WPs 1–3). (6) To investigate women’s and partners’/significant others’ experiences of different types of care (WP2).
Design
Objectives 1 and 2 – a cross-sectional survey stratified by response to Whooley depression screening questions. Objective 3 – an exploratory randomised controlled trial. Objective 4 – an exploratory factor analysis, including test–retest reliability and validity assessed by association with the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire contemporaneous satisfaction scores. Objective 5 – an observational cohort study using propensity scores for the main analysis and instrumental variable analysis using geographical distance to mother and baby unit. Objective 6 – a qualitative study.
Setting
English maternity services and generic and specialist mental health services for pregnant and postnatal women.
Participants
Staff and users of mental health and maternity services.
Interventions
Guided self-help, mother and baby units and generic care.
Main outcome measures
The following measures were evaluated in WP1(i) – specificity, sensitivity, positive predictive value, likelihood ratio, acceptability and population prevalence estimates. The following measures were evaluated in WP1(ii) – participant recruitment rate, attrition and adverse events. The following measure was evaluated in WP2 – experiences of care. The following measures were evaluated in WP3 – psychometric indices for perinatal VOICE and the proportion of participants readmitted to acute care in the year after discharge.
Results
WP1(i) – the population prevalence estimate was 11% (95% confidence interval 8% to 14%) for depression and 27% (95% confidence interval 22% to 32%) for any mental disorder in early pregnancy. The diagnostic accuracy of two depression screening questions was as follows: a weighted sensitivity of 0.41, a specificity of 0.95, a positive predictive value of 0.45, a negative predictive value of 0.93 and a likelihood ratio (positive) of 8.2. For the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, the diagnostic accuracy was as follows: a weighted sensitivity of 0.59, a specificity of 0.94, a positive predictive value of 0.52, a negative predictive value of 0.95 and a likelihood ratio (positive) of 9.8. Most women reported that asking about depression at the antenatal booking appointment was acceptable, although this was reported as being less acceptable for women with mental disorders and/or experiences of abuse. Cost-effectiveness analysis suggested that both the Whooley depression screening questions and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale were more cost-effective than with the Whooley depression screening questions followed by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale or no-screen option. WP1(ii) – 53 women with depression in pregnancy were randomised. Twenty-six women received modified guided self-help [with 18 (69%) women attending four or more sessions] and 27 women received usual care. Three women were lost to follow-up (follow-up for primary outcome: 92%). At 14 weeks post randomisation, women receiving guided self-help reported fewer depressive symptoms than women receiving usual care (adjusted effect size −0.64, 95% confidence interval −1.30 to 0.06). Costs and quality-adjusted life-years were similar, resulting in a 50% probability of guided self-help being cost-effective compared with usual care at National Institute for Health and Care Excellence cost per quality-adjusted life-year thresholds. The slow recruitment rate means that a future definitive larger trial is not feasible. WP2 – qualitative findings indicate that women valued clinicians with specialist perinatal expertise across all services, but for some women generic services were able to provide better continuity of care. Involvement of family members and care post discharge from acute services were perceived as poor across services, but there was also ambivalence among some women about increasing family involvement because of a complex range of factors. WP3(i) – for the perinatal VOICE, measures from exploratory factor analysis suggested that two factors gave an adequate fit (comparative fit index = 0.97). Items loading on these two dimensions were (1) those concerning aspects of the service relating to the care of the mother and (2) those relating to care of the baby. The factors were positively correlated (0.49; p < 0.0001). Total scores were strongly associated with service (with higher satisfaction for mother and baby units, 2 degrees of freedom; p < 0.0001) and with the ‘gold standard’ Client Service Questionnaire total score (test–retest intraclass correlation coefficient 0.784, 95% confidence interval 0.643 to 0.924; p < 0.0001). WP3(ii) – 263 of 279 women could be included in the primary analysis, which shows that the odds of being readmitted to acute care was 0.95 times higher for women who were admitted to a mother and baby unit than for those not admitted to a mother and baby unit (0.95, 95% confidence interval 0.86 to 1.04; p = 0.29). Sensitivity analysis using an instrumental variable found a markedly more significant effect of admission to mother and baby units (p < 0.001) than the primary analysis. Mother and baby units were not found to be cost-effective at 1 month post discharge because of the costs of care in a mother and baby unit. Cost-effectiveness advantages may exist if the cost of mother and baby units is offset by savings from reduced readmissions in the longer term.
Limitations
Policy and service changes had an impact on recruitment. In observational studies, residual confounding is likely.
Conclusions
Services adapted for the perinatal period are highly valued by women and may be more effective than generic services. Mother and baby units have a low probability of being cost-effective in the short term, although this may vary in the longer term.
Future work
Future work should include examination of how to reduce relapses, including in after-care following discharge, and how better to involve family members.
Trial registration
This trial is registered as ISRCTN83768230 and as study registration UKCRN ID 16403.
Funding
This project was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Programme Grants for Applied Research programme and will be published in full in Programme Grants for Applied Research; Vol. 10, No. 5. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise M Howard
- Section of Women’s Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Kathryn M Abel
- Centre for Women’s Mental Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Katie H Atmore
- Section of Women’s Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Debra Bick
- Division of Women and Children’s Health, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Amanda Bye
- Section of Women’s Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah Byford
- King’s Health Economics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Lauren E Carson
- Section of Women’s Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Clare Dolman
- Section of Women’s Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Margaret Heslin
- King’s Health Economics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Myra Hunter
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Stacey Jennings
- Section of Women’s Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Sonia Johnson
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ian Jones
- Institute of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neuroscience, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Rebecca McDonald
- Section of Women’s Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Jeannette Milgrom
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Parent–Infant Research Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nicola Morant
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Selina Nath
- Section of Women’s Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Susan Pawlby
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Laura Potts
- Biostatistics and Health Informatics, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Claire Powell
- Section of Women’s Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Diana Rose
- Service User Research Enterprise, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Elizabeth Ryan
- Biostatistics and Health Informatics, King’s College London, London, UK
| | | | - Rebekah Shallcross
- Section of Women’s Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Nicky Stanley
- School of Social Work, Care and Community, University of Central Lancashire, Harrington, UK
| | - Kylee Trevillion
- Section of Women’s Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Angelika Wieck
- Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Andrew Pickles
- Biostatistics and Health Informatics, King’s College London, London, UK
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Spadaro B, Martin-Key NA, Funnell E, Bahn S. mHealth Solutions for Perinatal Mental Health: Scoping Review and Appraisal Following the mHealth Index and Navigation Database Framework. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2022; 10:e30724. [PMID: 35037894 PMCID: PMC8804959 DOI: 10.2196/30724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The ever-increasing pressure on health care systems has resulted in the underrecognition of perinatal mental disorders. Digital mental health tools such as apps could provide an option for accessible perinatal mental health screening and assessment. However, there is a lack of information regarding the availability and features of perinatal app options. Objective This study aims to evaluate the current state of diagnostic and screening apps for perinatal mental health available on the Google Play Store (Android) and Apple App Store (iOS) and to review their features following the mHealth Index and Navigation Database framework. Methods Following a scoping review approach, the Apple App Store and Google Play Store were systematically searched to identify perinatal mental health assessment apps. A total of 14 apps that met the inclusion criteria were downloaded and reviewed in a standardized manner using the mHealth Index and Navigation Database framework. The framework comprised 107 questions, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of app origin, functionality, engagement features, security, and clinical use. Results Most apps were developed by for-profit companies (n=10), followed by private individuals (n=2) and trusted health care companies (n=2). Out of the 14 apps, 3 were available only on Android devices, 4 were available only on iOS devices, and 7 were available on both platforms. Approximately one-third of the apps (n=5) had been updated within the last 180 days. A total of 12 apps offered the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale in its original version or in rephrased versions. Engagement, input, and output features included reminder notifications, connections to therapists, and free writing features. A total of 6 apps offered psychoeducational information and references. Privacy policies were available for 11 of the 14 apps, with a median Flesch-Kincaid reading grade level of 12.3. One app claimed to be compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act standards and 2 apps claimed to be compliant with General Data Protection Regulation. Of the apps that could be accessed in full (n=10), all appeared to fulfill the claims stated in their description. Only 1 app referenced a relevant peer-reviewed study. All the apps provided a warning for use, highlighting that the mental health assessment result should not be interpreted as a diagnosis or as a substitute for medical care. Only 3 apps allowed users to export or email their mental health test results. Conclusions These results indicate that there are opportunities to improve perinatal mental health assessment apps. To this end, we recommend focusing on the development and validation of more comprehensive assessment tools, ensuring data protection and safety features are adequate for the intended app use, and improving data sharing features between users and health care professionals for timely support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Spadaro
- Cambridge Centre for Neuropsychiatric Research, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Nayra A Martin-Key
- Cambridge Centre for Neuropsychiatric Research, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Erin Funnell
- Cambridge Centre for Neuropsychiatric Research, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Sabine Bahn
- Cambridge Centre for Neuropsychiatric Research, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Psyomics Ltd, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Maternal mental health in the first year postpartum in a large Irish population cohort: the MAMMI study. Arch Womens Ment Health 2022; 25:641-653. [PMID: 35488067 PMCID: PMC9072451 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-022-01231-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The international perinatal literature focuses on depression in the postpartum period. Prevalence and pathways of depression, anxiety and stress from pregnancy through the first postpartum year are seldom investigated. METHODS MAMMI is a prospective cohort study of 3009 first-time mothers recruited in pregnancy. Depressive, anxiety and stress symptoms measured using the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS 21) in pregnancy and at 3-, 6-, 9- and/or 12-months postpartum. RESULTS Prevalence of depressive and stress symptoms was lowest in pregnancy, increasing to 12-months postpartum. Anxiety symptoms remained relatively stable over time. In the first year after having their first baby, one in ten women reported moderate/severe anxiety symptoms (9.5%), 14.2% reported depression symptoms, and one in five stress symptoms (19.2%). Sociodemographic factors associated with increased odds of postpartum depression, anxiety and stress symptoms were younger age and being born in a non-EU country; socioeconomic factors were not living with a partner, not having postgraduate education and being unemployed during pregnancy. Retrospective reporting of poor mental health in the year prior to pregnancy and symptoms during pregnancy were strongly associated with poor postpartum mental health. CONCLUSIONS The current findings suggest that the current model of 6-week postpartum care in Ireland is insufficient to detect and provide adequate support for women's mental health needs, with long-term implications for women and children.
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Abstract
Perinatal mental health has become a significant focus of interest in recent years, with investment in new specialist mental health services in some high-income countries, and inpatient psychiatric mother and baby units in diverse settings. In this paper, we summarize and critically examine the epidemiology and impact of perinatal mental disorders, including emerging evidence of an increase of their prevalence in young pregnant women. Perinatal mental disorders are among the commonest morbidities of pregnancy, and make an important contribution to maternal mortality, as well as to adverse neonatal, infant and child outcomes. We then review the current evidence base on interventions, including individual level and public health ones, as well as service delivery models. Randomized controlled trials provide evidence on the effectiveness of psychological and psychosocial interventions at the individual level, though it is not yet clear which women with perinatal mental disorders also need additional support for parenting. The evidence base on psychotropic use in pregnancy is almost exclusively observational. There is little research on the full range of perinatal mental disorders, on how to improve access to treatment for women with psychosocial difficulties, and on the effectiveness of different service delivery models. We conclude with research and clinical implications, which, we argue, highlight the need for an extension of generic psychiatric services to include preconception care, and further investment into public health interventions, in addition to perinatal mental health services, potentially for women and men, to reduce maternal and child morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise M. Howard
- Section of Women's Mental Health, Health Service and Population Research DepartmentInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Hind Khalifeh
- Section of Women's Mental Health, Health Service and Population Research DepartmentInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College LondonLondonUK
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Chamberlain C, Gee G, Gartland D, Mensah FK, Mares S, Clark Y, Ralph N, Atkinson C, Hirvonen T, McLachlan H, Edwards T, Herrman H, Brown SJ, Nicholson AJM. Community Perspectives of Complex Trauma Assessment for Aboriginal Parents: 'Its Important, but How These Discussions Are Held Is Critical'. Front Psychol 2020; 11:2014. [PMID: 33041880 PMCID: PMC7522325 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.02014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose Becoming a parent can be an exciting and also challenging transition, particularly for parents who have experienced significant hurt in their own childhoods, and may be experiencing ‘complex trauma.’ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (Aboriginal) people also experience historical trauma. While the parenting transition is an important time to offer support for parents, it is essential to ensure that the benefits of identifying parents experiencing complex trauma outweigh any risks (e.g., stigmatization). This paper describes views of predominantly Aboriginal stakeholders regarding (1) the relative importance of domains proposed for complex trauma assessment, and (2) how to conduct these sensitive discussions with Aboriginal parents. Setting and Methods A co-design workshop was held in Alice Springs (Central Australia) as part of an Aboriginal-led community-based participatory action research project. Workshop participants were 57 predominantly Aboriginal stakeholders with expertise in community, clinical, policy and academic settings. Twelve domains of complex trauma-related distress had been identified in existing assessment tools and through community consultation. Using story-telling and strategies to create safety for discussing complex and sensitive issues, and delphi-style methods, stakeholders rated the level of importance of the 12 domains; and discussed why, by whom, where and how experiences of complex trauma should be explored. Main Findings The majority of stakeholders supported the importance of assessing each of the proposed complex trauma domains with Aboriginal parents. However, strong concerns were expressed regarding where, by whom and how this should occur. There was greater emphasis and consistency regarding ‘qualities’ (e.g., caring), rather than specific ‘attributes’ (e.g., clinician). Six critical overarching themes emerged: ensuring emotional and cultural safety; establishing relationships and trust; having capacity to respond appropriately and access support; incorporating less direct cultural communication methods (e.g., yarning, dadirri); using strengths-based approaches and offering choices to empower parents; and showing respect, caring and compassion. Conclusion Assessments to identify Aboriginal parents experiencing complex trauma should only be considered when the prerequisites of safety, trusting relationships, respect, compassion, adequate care, and capacity to respond are assured. Offering choices and cultural and strengths-based approaches are also critical. Without this assurance, there are serious concerns that harms may outweigh any benefits for Aboriginal parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Chamberlain
- Judith Lumley Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,NGANGK YIRA: Murdoch University Research Centre for Aboriginal Health and Social Equity, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Graham Gee
- Intergenerational Health Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,School of Psychology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Deirdre Gartland
- Intergenerational Health Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Pediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Fiona K Mensah
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics Unit, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sarah Mares
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Yvonne Clark
- Judith Lumley Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,SAHMRI Women and Kids Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Naomi Ralph
- Judith Lumley Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Tanja Hirvonen
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Helen McLachlan
- Judith Lumley Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Tahnia Edwards
- Central Australian Aboriginal Congress, Alice Springs, NT, Australia
| | - Helen Herrman
- Orygen, National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Stephanie J Brown
- Intergenerational Health Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Pediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,SAHMRI Women and Kids Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - And Jan M Nicholson
- Judith Lumley Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Population Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Darwin Z, Domoney J, Iles J, Bristow F, Siew J, Sethna V. Assessing the Mental Health of Fathers, Other Co-parents, and Partners in the Perinatal Period: Mixed Methods Evidence Synthesis. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:585479. [PMID: 33510656 PMCID: PMC7835428 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.585479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Five to 10 percentage of fathers experience perinatal depression and 5-15% experience perinatal anxiety, with rates increasing when mothers are also experiencing perinatal mental health disorders. Perinatal mental illness in either parent contributes to adverse child and family outcomes. While there are increasing calls to assess the mental health of both parents, universal services (e.g., maternity) and specialist perinatal mental health services usually focus on the mother (i.e., the gestational parent). The aim of this review was to identify and synthesize evidence on the performance of mental health screening tools and the acceptability of mental health assessment, specifically in relation to fathers, other co-parents and partners in the perinatal period. Methods: A systematic search was conducted using electronic databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Maternity, and Infant Care Database and CINAHL). Articles were eligible if they included expectant or new partners, regardless of the partner's gender or relationship status. Accuracy was determined by comparison of screening tool with diagnostic interview. Acceptability was predominantly assessed through parents' and health professionals' perspectives. Narrative synthesis was applied to all elements of the review, with thematic analysis applied to the acceptability studies. Results: Seven accuracy studies and 20 acceptability studies were included. The review identified that existing evidence focuses on resident fathers and assessing depression in universal settings. All accuracy studies assessed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale but with highly varied results. Evidence on acceptability in practice is limited to postnatal settings. Amongst both fathers and health professionals, views on assessment are mixed. Identified challenges were categorized at the individual-, practitioner- and service-level. These include: gendered perspectives on mental health; the potential to compromise support offered to mothers; practitioners' knowledge, skills, and confidence; service culture and remit; time pressures; opportunity for contact; and the need for tools, training, supervision and onward referral routes. Conclusion: There is a paucity of published evidence on assessing the mental health of fathers, co-mothers, step-parents and other partners in the perinatal period. Whilst practitioners need to be responsive to mental health needs, further research is needed with stakeholders in a range of practice settings, with attention to ethical and practical considerations, to inform the implementation of evidence-based assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Darwin
- School of Human and Health Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, United Kingdom
| | - Jill Domoney
- Section of Women's Mental Health, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jane Iles
- Department of Psychology, University of Surrey, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Florence Bristow
- Community Perinatal Mental Health Service for Croydon, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jasmine Siew
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Research in Developmental Disorders Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Sackler Institute for Translational Neurodevelopment, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Vaheshta Sethna
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Sackler Institute for Translational Neurodevelopment, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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11
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The association between a history of self-harm and mental disorders in pregnancy. J Affect Disord 2019; 258:159-162. [PMID: 31415929 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2019.06.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-harm is prevalent, particularly among young women, and is associated with mental disorders. However, little is known about the mental health of pregnant women who have a history of self-harm. This study examined whether lifetime self-harm was associated with increased risk of antenatal mental disorders. METHODS Cross-sectional study of 544 pregnant women recruited after their first antenatal appointment, oversampling those who responded positively to the depression-screening Whooley questions. The Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV-TR was delivered, including questions about the lifetime occurrence of self-harm. The associations between lifetime self-harm and the presence of mental disorders, and more specifically anxiety and depressive disorders, were examined using survey-weighted logistic regression. The association between lifetime self-harm and symptoms of personality disorder, was investigated using survey-weighted linear regression. RESULTS After survey weighting, history of self-harm had a prevalence of 7.9% (95%CI 5.5-11.2%) and was associated with increased risk for mental disorders in early pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 5.03; 95%CI: 2.22-11.37; p < 0.0001; n = 517). Women with a history of self-harm were more likely to experience antenatal anxiety disorders (AOR 4.41; 95%CI: 1.85-10.51; p = 0.001; n = 517) and antenatal depression (AOR 2.71; 95%CI: 1.04-7.05; p = 0.042; n = 517) than women who did not report self-harm. History of self-harm was also associated with higher SAPAS scores (adjusted coefficient 0.69; 95%CI: 0.21-1.17; n = 517). LIMITATIONS Information on the timing and persistence of self-harm was not available. CONCLUSIONS Women with a history of self-harm are more vulnerable to mental disorders in pregnancy. Further research should include more comprehensive assessments of self-harm and the social context of pregnant women.
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