Physical health and comorbid anxiety and depression across the first year postpartum in Ireland (MAMMI study): A longitudinal population-based study

Abstract

Introduction: Little is known of the associations between physical health issues and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and comorbid anxiety and depression (CAD) occurring in the perinatal period. Methods: A longitudinal cohort study with 3009 first-time mothers giving birth in Ireland collected physical and mental health data in pregnancy and at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months postpartum. Mental health was measured using the depression and anxiety subscales of the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale. Experience of eight common physical health issues (e.g. severe headaches/migraines, back pain) were assessed in pregnancy, with an additional six assessed at each postpartum data collectio..