Abstract
Introduction
Currently, no data are available using standardized
instruments for evaluating the postpartum mental health of women with previous
bariatric surgery. The aim of this pilot study was to assess postpartum mental
health in women following bariatric surgery and to establish appropriate tools
for a prospective registry study in the future.
Methods
In this survey, the mental health of 22 women during the first
weeks postpartum was examined (T1) and their status at least 6 months after
childbirth was prospectively assessed (T2). Symptoms of depression and anxiety
were evaluated with standardized questionnaires and depression was diagnosed
with structured diagnostic interviews (SCID-5).
Results
At T1, 3/22 women (14%) reported depressive or anxiety symptoms,
and in these women, the diagnosis of depression was established. In comparison
with T1, at T2, symptomatology for depression or anxiety increased to 32% and
27% of patients, respectively, but only one woman was diagnosed with depression.
In comparison to patients without symptoms, patients with signs of depression or
anxiety or both had lower total body weight loss and, more often, a personal or
family history of depressive disorders.
Conclusion
Our pilot study suggests that the rate of postpartum depression
in women after BS might be higher than in the general population. High symptom
levels of depression and anxiety emphasize the necessity of long-term bariatric
follow-up care. Further research is needed to evaluate if prevalence of
depression or anxiety disorder or both is higher in this patient group as
compared to other patients after bariatric surgery.
Keywords
Depression - Anxiety - Childbirth - Postpartum - Bariatric surgery - Obesity
