Previously existing hypertension is associated with depression in pregnant women
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Women with high blood pressure in a history before pregnancy have a higher risk of developing depression than women whose hypertension develops directly during pregnancy, according to a new study.
"Depression during pregnancy is associated with postpartum depression, mother-child communication problems, and, in general, has a negative impact on the health of both," said study author Wayne Caton of the University of Washington.
The study examined 2,398 women receiving antenatal care at the obstetrics clinic in Seattle, Washington, USA. Scientists evaluated their depressive symptoms and the already existing hypertension or hypertension caused by pregnancy.
During pregnancy, 13% of women recorded arterial hypertension. 70% of cases of hypertension during pregnancy arose as a result of physiological changes occurring during pregnancy, after the birth, blood pressure returns to normal. 5-7% of pregnant women developed a life-threatening condition known as preeclampsia - a severe form of hypertension of pregnant women, which can lead to premature birth.
Previous studies have suggested that there may be a link between depression, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and pre-eclampsia. However, the study did not confirm the existence of such a connection. Instead, it found that women with hypertension before pregnancy, with or without development of pre-eclampsia, are 55-65% more prone to manifestations of depression.
Many women who have high blood pressure before pregnancy have other risk factors, including diabetes and obesity, Cato said: "Depression can significantly affect the correct regimen of a pregnant mother: diet, exercise and taking the necessary medications, putting the mother's health and the child is at risk. "
"As far as I know, very few midwives do any screening for depression during prenatal examination," said Cato, "They really test for hypertension." Women with existing hypertension are important to check for depression within four months, given the risk of negative consequences for birth and non-compliance with the treatment of hypertension. "
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