Improving Antenatal Depression Symptoms Linked to Decreased Odds of Preterm Birth, Study Finds

A recent study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that referring pregnant individuals for mental health care improved depressive symptoms in 35% of participants and was linked to significantly decreased odds of preterm birth. The study suggests that incorporating mental health care into routine prenatal care, including routine screening for depression during pregnancy, is important to allow for timely diagnosis and treatment of depressive symptoms. Participants with improved antenatal depression symptom trajectory had significantly decreased odds of preterm birth, indicating that treating depressive symptoms during pregnancy could potentially reduce the rate of preterm birth. This study highlights the importance of addressing mental health as a key component of prenatal care.