The state of psychosocial of women during pregnancy and 2 years after birth : A relationship between MCQ, EPDS and GHQ

Abstract

This paper examines the emotional status and support patterns of women regarding childrearing. It is a longitudinal study, designed to explore the psychosocial aspects of women during and after pregnancy up to two years. The study participants completed MCQ, GHQ30, EPDS and SE questionnaires in third trimester of pregnancy, early postpartum and at 1, 7,12 and 24 months postpartum. Findings indicated; (1) a significant difference between in third trimester of pregnancy and early postpartum, former scored higher on depression and emotional instability; (2) similar pattern of MCQ during pregnancy and 2 years after birth; (3) scale on support from husband was high at 2 years postpartum. Score on body image especially concerned about body weight was high at 1 year postpartum; (4) GHQ scored higher than average at 1 & 2 years postpartum; (5) a significant difference berween primiparae and multiparae, former having higher anxiety and depression. From the findings above it is clear that women are confronted with different set of psychosocial problems during pregnancy, postpartum and a considerable period after child birth. So, it is important that early screening should routinely be carried out to identify at risk women for continued follow up during pregnancy, postpartum and period after child birth.