| Sub-title | |
| Author | Rita Borg Xuereb |
| Abstract | Background: There is an impressive amount of literature suggesting that the stress of the adaptation to parenthood can lead to non-psychotic depression in mothers during the antenatal and the postpartum period. On the other hand literature examining prenatal and postnatal mental health in men is still in its infancy. Aims and methods: A longitudinal study using a mixed methodology design is underway to explore ways how midwives may educate and support the needs of men and women during their adjustment to parenthood and to examine the pregnancy and the postpartum period experience of Maltese parents. Maltese first-time parents were randomly recruited from the Antenatal Clinic, Karen Grech Hospital, between February- September 2005, by means of an interview (mean: 19 weeks). Four hundred and forty-two first-time parents (221 men, 221 women) were assessed using a number of self-report questionnaires. Data was collected in three phases, during pregnancy, at 6 weeks and again at 6 months postpartum. This paper presents results on the emotional well-being of men and women on using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Results: Highlight that both men and women are suffering from emotional distress during the transition to parenthood. The immediate postpartum period, is the most stressful time for men and women, however parents were found to be still stressed at 6 months postpartum. Conclusion: Men and women appear to be ill-prepared for the impact of parenthood on their lives. |
Published in: | |
| Journal | Malta Medical Journal |
| Volume | 18 Supplement |
| Page | |
| Date | 01/12/2006 |
| Link to journal | |
| Key words | depression, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), emotional stress, parenthood |