Fear of childbirth ‘can act as predictor of postpartum depression’

An increased risk of postpartum depression has been observed among women with a prenatally diagnosed fear of childbirth, according to new research.

Scientists from the University of Eastern Finland has carried out a study of more than 500,000 mothers in Finland, revealing that a fear of childbirth puts women without a history of depression at an approximately three times higher risk of postpartum depression.

Women with a history of depression were shown once again to be at the highest risk of further mental problems after giving birth. Other risk factors included Caesarean section, pre-term birth and major congenital anomaly.

Given that this research is founded on diagnosis-based data, its findings may help healthcare professionals in recognising the signs of postpartum depression, a common condition that can put the mother's health at risk, while impairing her ability to bond with the child.

The UK government is currently seeking to take steps to ensure there are enough trained specialist mental health midwives in the NHS to help women at risk of this condition and provide them with the support they need.