Exploring Bridge Symptoms in Postpartum Women With Comorbid Postpartum Depression and Postpartum Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Background

Postpartum depression (PPD) and postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder (PP-PTSD) are prevalent among women. However, the specific symptoms that serve as bridges remain unknown between these two disorders. Aim: The objective of this study is to establish a symptom network model for PPD and PP-PTSD and investigate the bridge symptoms and their interrelationships in cases of comorbid PPD and PP-PTSD.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Wuhan from March 2024 to November 2024. PPD was evaluated using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, and PP-PTSD was measured using the Chinese version of the Perinatal PTSD Questionnaire. The "Postpartum Depression-Postpartum Post-traumatic Stress Disorder" network model was constructed and analyzed using R software version 4.2.3.

Conclusion

Healthcare professionals should focus on the severe bridge symptoms reported by postpartum women. To enhance awareness and alleviate anxiety levels, it is advisable to implement positive psychological interventions.