Blood Pressure, Depression, and Suicidal Ideation Among Pregnant Women with HIV

Although prior research has examined associations between blood pressure (BP), depression, and suicidal ideation, few studies have examined this in high-risk populations such as pregnant women with HIV (WHIV). The current study examined the association of BP with depression and suicidal ideation among pregnant WHIV (n = 217) in rural South Africa. BP data (measured <= 1 month before the study visit) was extracted from medical records. Depressive symptomatology and suicidal ideation were assessed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Diastolic BP was positively associated with both suicidal ideation and depressive symptomatology, even after controlling for demographic variables, gestational age, and intimate partner violence. These findings suggest that WHIV with elevated BP may be at greater risk for antenatal depression and suicidal ideation. Future research should utilize longitudinal designs to examine potential mechanisms and the directionality of the relationship, as well as other contributing factors.

Automated summary

This study found a positive association between diastolic blood pressure and depressive symptomatology and suicidal ideation among pregnant women with HIV. Even after controlling for other variables, this relationship still existed. These findings suggest that pregnant women with HIV and elevated diastolic blood pressure may be at greater risk for antenatal depression and suicidal ideation. Future research should focus on potential mechanisms and directionality of this relationship, as well as other contributing factors.