The Effect of Postpartum Depressive Symptoms (PDS) on Maternal Health Practices After Childbirth, Texas Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System, 2012-2015.

Objectives: This study examined the contribution of postpartum depressive symptoms (PDS) on select maternal health practices among Texas women, using 2012-2015 survey data from the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System.

Methods: Multiple logistic regression was used to assess the effect of PDS on postpartum checkups, postpartum dental visits, and use of postpartum birth control. Covariates included maternal age, race/ethnicity, marital status, education, and depression before birth.

Results: Data from 4679 respondents were used in analyses, and the prevalence of women reporting PDS was 13.8 percent. Women without PDS were more likely to attend a postpartum checkup (adjusted OR = 1.5; 95% CI  1.1-2.1) or have a postpartum dental visit (adjusted OR = 1.4, 95% CI  1.0-1.8) than women with PDS. There was insufficient evidence to conclude any association between PDS and use of postpartum birth control.

Conclusions: These findings highlight adverse effects of PDS on maternal health practices not previously studied. Results stress the importance of healthcare professionals monitoring the moods and actions of women of childbearing age to provide early interventions for women experiencing PDS, and of emphasizing positive maternal health practices after childbirth.