Comparison of Postpartum Depression and Maternal Attachment Between Planned and Unplanned Pregnancies

Authors : Behiye Özlem Türk, Handan Özcan

Pages : 126-134

View : 47 | Download : 45

Publication Date : 2024-12-25

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study aims to evaluate postpartum depression and maternal attachment in planned and unplanned pregnancies. The sample of this descriptive study comprised 92 puerperal women, with 46 having unplanned pregnancies and 46 having planned pregnancies, all of whom had recently given birth. The women were interviewed within 24 hours after childbirth and again one month postpartum. Data were collected using a Descriptive Information Form, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and the Maternal Attachment Scale (MAS). The mean scores from the Maternal Attachment Scale did not vary between the first and second measurements in the planned pregnancy group (p>0.05). However, there was a significant difference between the first and second measurements in the unplanned pregnancy group (p=0.022). The change in Maternal Attachment Scale scores between the first and second measurements differed depending on the pregnancy plan groups (p=0.044). The mean maternal attachment scores were lower in the unplanned pregnancy group. The mean BDI scores were lower in the planned pregnancy group compared to the unplanned pregnancy group (p<0.001). BDI classification varied based on the pregnancy plan (p=0.012). Minimal depressive symptom rates were higher in the planned pregnancy group, while symptoms were generally light or moderate in the unplanned pregnancy group. The study found that maternal attachment was higher and depression levels were lower in planned pregnancies compared to unplanned pregnancies. It is recommended that pregnancies be planned to promote healthier maternal attachment and reduce the risk of postpartum depression.
Keywords : Planlı gebelik, Plansız gebelik, Anne bağlanması, Doğum sonu Depresyon.