Depressione post-natale : studio pilota sui fattori di rischio in un gruppo di donne del Nord Italia

Aim. This research aimed to study the risk factors which predispose women to post partum depression. This study was conducted on women from a rural province in northern Italy. Methods. The women enrolled in the study were interviewed and completed the Symptom Checklist 90-R (SCL 90R) and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) scales at 12 weeks of pregnancy and at 12 weeks post partum. Interviews prior to birth were focused on the emotional significance of pregnancy while interviews after birth were on the relationships with the partner and the family and on the birthing experience. Results. Two groups emerged, a low risk group and a medium-high risk group. Conclusion. Prenatal fears, the birthing experience and post partum stress involving caring for the newborn child, concurrent with specific personality traits are the greatest risk factors forpost partum depression.