PHQ-9 Based Screening Of Psychiatric Illness In The Antenatal Period And Its Progression – A Cross Sectional, Prospective Study At A Tertiary Care Centre In Central India
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69980/ajpr.v28i5.711Keywords:
Antenatal Depression,, PHQ-9 Screening,, Pregnancy,, Maternal Mental Health,, Psychiatric Illness,, Socioeconomic Factors.Abstract
Introduction: Antenatal psychiatric disorders, particularly depression and anxiety, are among the most prevalent complications of pregnancy and can have significant short- and long-term consequences for both maternal and fetal health.
Aims & Objectives: To screen pregnant women using PHQ-9 for high-risk psychiatric symptoms and confirm diagnoses through further evaluation, aiming for early detection and management to improve maternal and fetal outcomes.
Materials & Methods: This prospective, observational, hospital-based study was conducted at Government Medical College, Nagpur, India. The total study duration was 18 months, divided into three distinct phases for systematic data collection and analysis. The study population comprised all pregnant women attending the antenatal care (ANC) outpatient department (OPD) during the study period, with a total sample size of 141 participants.
Result: In our study of 141 antenatal women, most were aged 26–30 years, married, and from lower or lower-middle socioeconomic backgrounds. PHQ-9 screening showed 32.6% had minimal, 44.7% mild, 16.3% moderate, 5.7% moderately severe, and 0.7% severe depression. Depressive symptoms were significantly more common among women from lower socioeconomic classes. These findings highlight a high prevalence of antenatal depression, emphasizing the need for routine PHQ-9 screening and early mental health intervention during pregnancy.
Conclusion: The study underscores that antenatal depression is common, especially among women with lower socioeconomic status, limited education, or rural residence. Most exhibited mild to moderate symptoms such as fatigue, poor sleep, and low mood, highlighting the need for early detection through routine PHQ-9 screening, counseling, and integrated mental health support to improve maternal and fetal outcomes.
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