The role of gestational weight gain disorders in symptoms of maternal postpartum depression

Objective To examine the association of gestational weight gain (GWG), categorized according to 2009 IOM guidelines as adequate, inadequate, and excessive, with symptoms of mental disorders perceived by mothers after childbearing as anhedonia, anxiety, and depression, defined by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Previous studies indicated that disorders related to GWG are associated with an increased risk of postpartum psychological distress. Methods A prospective cohort study took place at the Policlinico Abano Terme, Italy, from May 2016 to November 2018. Results The sample included 1268 healthy at term puerperae, 557 (43.9%) with adequate, 388 (30.6%) with inadequate, and 323 (25.5%) with excessive GWG. Mean EPDS scores were comparable among inadequate, adequate, and excessive GWG groups. However, mean factor scores for anhedonia and anxiety were significantly higher (P = 0.041 and P = 0.001, ANOVA) in mothers with excessive GWG. Conversely, factor scores for depression were significantly higher (P = 0.008, ANOVA) in mothers with inadequate GWG. Conclusion It was found that excessive GWG across an uncomplicated pregnancy is a warning sign of symptoms of anhedonia and anxiety, whereas inadequate GWG is a significant indicator of symptoms of depression. These relationships highlight the potential for interventions directed toward psychosocial support to have beneficial effects upon GWG.

Automated summary

Excessive gestational weight gain is associated with symptoms of anhedonia and anxiety, while inadequate gestational weight gain is a significant indicator of symptoms of depression. These findings suggest the potential for interventions focused on psychosocial support to have positive effects on gestational weight gain.