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Survey study, 2024

Are women with a history of PMS or PMDD more likely to develop depression during pregnancy?

Yes. Women with PMDD were 3.54 times more likely to have depression during pregnancy, and those with PMS were 2.31 times more likely, compared to women without either condition.

Early or limited evidence 212 pregnant women at 24 to 28 weeks and 6 days gestation

What they did

Cross-sectional online questionnaire study of 212 pregnant women at 24 to 28 weeks of pregnancy. Researchers assessed their history of PMS or PMDD and whether they currently had depression during pregnancy.

What they found

Women with a history of PMDD were significantly more likely to have depression during pregnancy (3.54 times higher odds, p = 0.02). Women with a history of PMS were also significantly more likely (2.31 times higher odds, p = 0.03).

What it means for you

A history of PMS or PMDD may increase the risk of depression during pregnancy. Screening pregnant women for past PMS or PMDD could help identify those at higher risk and provide mental health support early. This is observational data, so it doesn't prove that PMS causes antenatal depression. The study included only women already receiving prenatal care.

3.54

odds ratio with PMDD history

2.31

odds ratio with PMS history

212

pregnant women studied

About the study

Original title
Impact of premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder on maternal antenatal depression
Authors
Ihara N, Sato Y, Ikeda S et al.
Journal
PloS one
Year
2024
Study design
Survey study
Participants
212
What was tested
None
Open access
Yes
Original abstract

In this study, we aimed to determine the association of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) with maternal antenatal depression. This cross-sectional, online questionnaire-based observational study included 212 pregnant women between gestational ages 24 weeks and 28 weeks 6 days. PMS and PMDD were measured using the PMDD Scale, and maternal antenatal depression was evaluated using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Baseline characteristics, clinical information, and associated factors were also included in the questionnaire. Analyses were conducted using a binomial logistic regression model with Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale positivity (maternal antenatal depression) as the dependent variable. Having "PMDD" (odds ratio: 3.54 [95% confidence interval: 1.26-9.93], p = 0.02) and "PMS" (odds ratio 2.31 [1.10-4.87], p = 0.03) on the PMDD rating scale were significantly associated with maternal antenatal depression. Therefore, our results suggest that screening for a history of PMS or PMDD during the early antepartum interview may aid mental health care and prevent perinatal depression during the early stages of pregnancy.

Reproduced under CC-BY.

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