Preeclampsia and Its Complications Exacerbate Development of Postpartum Depression: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Objective: We aimed to determine the incidence rate of PPD in PE patients and comprehensively evaluate the association between PPD and PE, including its severity and complications. Design: A retrospective cohort study. Setting: Two cities in China (Chongqing & Xining). Population: 425 pregnant women. Methods: Totally 425 participants including 130 PE mothers were enrolled in this study. Each woman was asked to complete a questionnaire within 6 weeks after delivery, integrating Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), Leakage Index Questionnaire, and a pain-scale questionnaire. Main Outcome Measures: The positive screening of postpartum depression between PE and normal pregnant population. Results: The positive rate for PPD in PE group was significantly higher than the control group (30.77% vs. 14.58%). Based on the results of the regression model, women diagnosed with severe PE and FGR were more inclined to develop PPD than normal ones. Postpartum pain tend to exacerbate the odds of PPD among PE patients. Conclusions: PE was an independent risk factor for PPD. Its severity and complications exacerbate the development of PPD. Families and society should pay more attentions on PE patients after delivery to against the development of PPD.