Maternal depression and offspring mental health at age 5: MINA-Brazil cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: To identify longitudinal patterns of maternal depression between three months and five years after child's birth, to examine predictor variables for these trajectories, and to evaluate whether distinct depression trajectories predict offspring mental health problems at age 5 years. METHODS: We used data from the Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition in Acre (MINA-Brazil) study, a population-based birth cohort in the Western Brazilian Amazon. Maternal depressive symptoms were assessed with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) at 3 and 6-8 months, and 1 and 2 years after delivery. Mental health problems in 5-year-old children were evaluated with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) reported by parents. Trajectories of maternal depression were calculated using a group-based modelling approach. RESULTS: We identified four trajectories of maternal depressive symptoms: "low" (67.1%), "increasing" (11.5%), "decreasing" (17.4%), and "high-chronic" (4.0%). Women in the "high/chronic" trajectory were the poorest, least educated, and oldest compared with women in the other trajectory groups. Also, they were more frequently multiparous and reported smoking and having attended fewer prenatal consultations during pregnancy. In the adjusted analyses, the odds ratio of any SDQ disorder was 3.23 (95%CI: 2.00-5.22) and 2.87 (95%CI: 1.09-7.57) times higher among children of mothers belonging to the "increasing" and "high-chronic" trajectory groups, respectively, compared with those of mothers in the "low" depressive symptoms group. These differences were not explained by maternal and child characteristics included in multivariate analyses. CONCLUSIONS: We identified poorer mental health outcomes for children of mothers assigned to the "chronic/severe" and "increasing" depressive symptoms trajectories. Prevention and treatment initiatives to avoid the adverse short, medium, and long-term effects of maternal depression on offspring development should focus on women belonging to these groups.

Efficacy and Safety of Auricular Acupuncture for Depression: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Importance: Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide, and there is increasing interest in nonpharmacological treatments. Auricular acupuncture (AA) is a simple, low-cost, and well-tolerated option, but further studies are needed to establish its efficacy and safety. Objective: To estimate the efficacy and safety of auricular acupuncture as a treatment for depression. Design, Setting, and Participants: This randomized clinical trial was conducted at 4 university research centers in Brazil, from March to July 2023. Eligible patients were adults aged 18 to 50 years whose score on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) indicated moderate depression (score 10-14) or moderately severe depression (score 15-19). Exclusion criteria included previous application of AA, risk of suicidal ideation, or severe depression (PHQ-9 score >20). An intent-to-treat analysis and modified intent-to-treat analysis were conducted. Intervention: Participants were randomized into 2 treatment groups, which included specific AA (SA) and nonspecific AA (NSA). Both groups received 12 sessions of AA with semipermanent needles with daily stimulation twice a week over 6 weeks and were followed-up for 3 months. All participants continued with their usual care for ethical reasons. The SA group's treatment protocol consisted of 6 acupuncture points on the auricular pavilion chosen according to the diagnosis of depression by traditional Chinese medicine (Shenmen, subcortex, heart, lung, liver, and kidney). The NSA group's acupuncture points were the external ear, the cheek and face area, and 4 nonspecific points in the helix region unassociated with mental health symptoms. A locator device was used to confirm which areas had neuroreactive points. Main Outcomes and Measures: The primary outcome was a reduction of at least 50% in the PHQ-9 score (ie, depression recovery) at 3 months. Secondary outcomes included depression recovery at 4 and 6 weeks; depression remission (PHQ-9 score < 5) at 4 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months); and adverse events. Results: A total of 304 participants were screened, and 74 participants (62 women [84%]; median [IQR] age, 29 [23-27] years) were included in the intention-to-treat analysis, with 37 participants randomized to each group (SA and NSA). A total of 47 participants (64%) were followed-up through 3 months. The results showed no statistically significant difference in depressive recovery between the groups at 3 months (14 of 24 participants in the SA group [58%] vs 10 of 23 participants in the NSA group [43%]; risk ratio [RR], 1.34; 95% CI, 0.76-2.45; P = .38). The proportions of depression recovery and remission at 4 and 6 weeks based on the PHQ-9 were higher in the SA group (except for depression recovery at 6 weeks) with no statistically significant differences. However, a statistically significant difference was observed in symptom remission at 3 months (11 of 24 participants in the SA group [46%] vs 3 of 23 participants in the NSA group [13%]; RR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.16-3.34; P = .02) in favor of SA. There were no significant differences in adverse event rates between the groups, evidencing the intervention's safety. Most participants reported mild pain at the needle application site (33 patients [94%] in the SA group vs 32 patients [91%] in the NSA group). Five participants dropped out of the study due to adverse events. Conclusions and Relevance: The results of this randomized clinical trial suggest that SA over 6 weeks is safe. Although there was no statistically significant difference between groups for the primary efficacy outcome, patients receiving SA did experience greater symptom remission at 3 months. A larger sample size and longer intervention are needed to further evaluate the efficacy of SA for depression. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05855421.

Maternal depression and offspring mental health at age 5: MINA-Brazil cohort study / Depressão materna e saúde mental infantil aos cinco anos de idade: Estudo de coorte MINA-Brasil

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: To identify longitudinal patterns of maternal depression between three months and five years after child's birth, to examine predictor variables for these trajectories, and to evaluate whether distinct depression trajectories predict offspring mental health problems at age 5 years. METHODS: We used data from the Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition in Acre (MINA-Brazil) study, a population-based birth cohort in the Western Brazilian Amazon. Maternal depressive symptoms were assessed with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) at 3 and 6-8 months, and 1 and 2 years after delivery. Mental health problems in 5-year-old children were evaluated with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) reported by parents. Trajectories of maternal depression were calculated using a group-based modelling approach. RESULTS: We identified four trajectories of maternal depressive symptoms: "low" (67.1%), "increasing" (11.5%), "decreasing" (17.4%), and "high-chronic" (4.0%). Women in the "high/chronic" trajectory were the poorest, least educated, and oldest compared with women in the other trajectory groups. Also, they were more frequently multiparous and reported smoking and having attended fewer prenatal consultations during pregnancy. In the adjusted analyses, the odds ratio of any SDQ disorder was 3.23 (95%CI: 2.00-5.22) and 2.87 (95%CI: 1.09-7.57) times higher among children of mothers belonging to the "increasing" and "high-chronic" trajectory groups, respectively, compared with those of mothers in the "low" depressive symptoms group. These differences were not explained by maternal and child characteristics included in multivariate analyses. CONCLUSIONS: We identified poorer mental health outcomes for children of mothers assigned to the "chronic/severe" and "increasing" depressive symptoms trajectories. Prevention and treatment initiatives to avoid the adverse short, medium, and long-term effects of maternal depression on offspring development should focus on women belonging to these groups.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Identificar padrões longitudinais de depressão materna entre três meses e cinco anos após o nascimento de seus filhos, analisar variáveis preditoras dessas trajetórias e avaliar se trajetórias distintas de depressão predizem problemas de saúde mental infantil aos cinco anos de idade. MÉTODOS: Utilizou-se dados do estudo sobre saúde e nutrição materno infantil no Acre (MINA-Brasil), uma coorte de nascimentos de base populacional na Amazônia ocidental brasileira. Os sintomas depressivos maternos foram avaliados pela Escala de Depressão Pós-parto de Edimburgo (EPDS) aos 3 e 6-8 meses e 1 e 2 anos após o parto. Problemas de saúde mental em crianças com cinco anos de idade foram avaliados pelo Questionário de Capacidades e Dificuldades (SDQ- Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire), respondido pelos pais. As trajetórias de depressão materna foram calculadas usando uma abordagem de modelagem baseada em grupos. RESULTADOS: Foram identificadas quatro trajetórias de sintomas depressivos maternos: "baixa" (67,1%), "crescente" (11,5%), "decrescente" (17,4%) e "alta-crônica" (4,0%). As mulheres na trajetória "alta/crônica" eram mais pobres, menos escolarizadas, mais velhas e multíparas e relataram tabagismo com maior frequência e menor número de consultas de pré-natal durante a gestação do que as demais. Nas análises ajustadas, a razão de chances de qualquer transtorno do SDQ foi 3,23 (IC95%:2,00-5,22) e 2,87 (IC95%: 1,09-7,57) vezes maior entre os filhos de mães nos grupos de trajetória "crescente" e "alta-crônica", respectivamente, do que de mães do grupo de sintomas depressivos "baixos". As características maternas e infantis incluídas nas análises multivariadas foram incapazes de explicar essas diferenças. CONCLUSÕES: Identificou-se piores desfechos de saúde mental para filhos de mães atribuídas às trajetórias "crônica/grave" e "crescente" de sintomas depressivos. Iniciativas de prevenção e tratamento para evitar os efeitos adversos a curto, médio e longo prazo da depressão materna sobre o desenvolvimento de seus filhos devem se concentrar principalmente nas mulheres nesses grupos.

Depression moderates the association between pregnancy and suicidal ideation among pregnant and non-pregnant reproductive age women in Brazil.

Background: Maternal mental health problems are a serious public health concern. Previous data reported that pregnancy might have a protective effect against suicide. In contrast, more recent studies suggested that the prevalence of suicidal ideation (SI) is higher among pregnant women compared to the general population. Using a nationally representative population-based sample of Brazilian reproductive-aged women, this study aims to assess whether SI is more prevalent among pregnant women in comparison with nonpregnant woman. Methods: We used data from the Brazilian National Health Survey (PNS) of 2019, a cross-sectional study that comprised a representative sample of residents in private households in Brazil. For the analysis of this study, we selected women aged between 15 and 49 years old who have answered the questionnaire of the Selected Resident of the PNS, which comprised a sample of 27,249 women. Logistic regression models were performed to obtain crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) for the association between pregnancy status and SI. Results: The prevalence of SI during pregnancy was 6.8% (95% CI: 6.2-7.4). The association between pregnancy status and SI was modified according to the recent clinical diagnosis of depression (interaction term: OR = 41.72, 95% CI: 5.64-308.45, p < 0.001). Our findings indicated that among nondepressed women, pregnancy status seems to decrease the probability of SI. Additionally, SI is associated with a vulnerable profile that includes being an adolescent, having an unpartnered/not married status, lower family income, lower education, and a recent clinical diagnosis of depression. Conclusion: SI is a common problem for reproductive-age women. In the presence of a recent depression clinical diagnosis, pregnancy increases the risk of SI. Management of SI among pregnant women should correctly identify sociodemographic risk factors and the presence of a recent clinical diagnosis of depression.

Prevalence and associated factors with homeopathy use in Brazil: a population-based study.

Despite the controversy about its efficacy, homeopathy is considered a medical practice alternative to the conventional medical model. Prevalence of homeopathy use varies greatly among countries and the literature has conflicting evidence about the relation between sociodemographic factors and health conditions associated with homeopathy use. We aim to estimate the prevalence of homeopathy use and its association with self-perceived health status, depression, and sociodemographic factors. We used data from 90,846 participants in the 2019 Brazilian National Survey of Health (PNS 2019), a population-based study with complex and probabilistic sampling. Sociodemographic and clinical data and information on homeopathy use during the last 12 months were collected. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was used to assess depression. All variables were categorized. Logistic regression models were built to obtain crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). The prevalence of homeopathy use was 0.99% (95%CI: 0.98-1.00). In the adjusted analysis, the following variables were associated with higher use of homeopathy: female gender, age above 51 years, white ethnicity, higher socioeconomic and educational attainment, residence in Southern/Southeastern Brazil, poorer self-reported health status, and depression. Brazil shows increased offer of complementary medicine, including homeopathy. Nevertheless, the use of homeopathy treatment is very low and clearly associated with a higher socioeconomic status, poorer self-reported health status, and depression.

The Influence of Human-Milk Substitutes Marketing on Breastfeeding Intention and Practice among Native and Immigrant Brazilians.

BACKGROUND: The International Code of Marketing of Breast-Milk Substitutes is a global public health policy aiming to protect breastfeeding from the influence of human-milk substitutes marketing. Brazil is one of the few countries substantially implementing it. Most countries adopted selected provisions, including Portugal. RESEARCH AIM: To explore whether Brazilians' perspectives about breastfeeding intention and practice are influenced by human-milk substitutes marketing upon migration to Portugal. METHODS: A qualitative, prospective, cross-sectional survey design was conducted in Brazil and Portugal (2018-2019). Qualitative semi-structured interviews were performed with native (n = 16) and immigrant (n = 15) Brazilians. Women aged 18 or above, mothers of 0-12 month infants, and without contraindications to breastfeed, were eligible for the study. Heterogeneity sampling was employed based on socioeconomic status and infants' age. Content analysis was conducted using NVivo. RESULTS: Brazilian immigrants were more aware of the potential negative influence of human-milk substitutes marketing than natives. Sociocultural factors contributed to Brazilian immigrants being less permeable to the influence of human-milk substitutes marketing in the host country, where a less protective breastfeeding environment was perceived. CONCLUSIONS: Sociocultural factors including breastfeeding promotion strategies and a strong breastfeeding culture in the home country appear to play a protective role on breastfeeding intention and practice among Brazilians migrating to Portugal.

Depression underdiagnosis: Prevalence and associated factors. A population-based study.

Despite its high prevalence and negative consequences, depression is often underdiagnosed. We aimed to estimate the prevalence and sociodemographic and health related factors associated with depression underdiagnosis among a nationally representative population-based sample in Brazil. METHOD: We used data from 70,806 participants (15-107 years old) of the Brazilian National Survey (PNS 2019). Depression underdiagnosis was considered for participants with a Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) score >9 and with no diagnosis made by a health provider. Logistic regression models were performed to assess the crude and adjusted association between depression underdiagnosis and sociodemographic and health related factors. Population attributable risk fractions were calculated for significant predictors. RESULTS: The prevalence of depression (according the PHQ-9) was 11.2% (IC95% 10.8:11.7). Depression underdiagnosis prevalence was 63.6% (IC95% 62.0%:65.2%) and was more frequent among male, elderly population, those with lower income, lower schooling, living in the North/Central region of the country, with best health perception, lower number of chronic disease and medical appointments. A significant percentage of depression underdiagnosed cases in Brazil in 2019 would be prevent by improving education (10.18%), income (3.99%), access to health visits (5.59%) and addressing barriers for depression diagnosis among males (5.44%), elderlies (3.32%), and population from the North region (8.29%). CONCLUSION(S): depression underdiagnosis is common in Brazil. Preventive measures should target the sociodemographic and health related factors associated with depression underdiagnosis.

Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Suicidal Ideation Among Brazilian Pregnant Women: A Population-Based Study.

Background: Suicide is a leading cause of death during the perinatal period in high-income countries (HIC). There remains a lack of population-based studies about suicidal ideation (SI) during pregnancy among low and middle income countries (LMIC). Objectives: Using the case of Brazil, we aim to estimate the prevalence of SI during pregnancy and its association with antenatal depression (AD) and sociodemographic factors in a LMIC. Method: We used data from the Brazilian National Survey (PNS-2019), a population-based study, with a complex and probabilistic sampling method. Of the 27,136 women of reproductive age (15 to 49 years old) who participated in the PNS, a total of 769 women reported being pregnant at the time of the interview. All PNS participants answered the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and a questionnaire with sociodemographic data. SI was defined as any answer to the PHQ-9 item 9 other than 0 (not at all). Logistic regression models were performed to obtain crude and adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for the association between explanatory variables and SI during pregnancy. Results: Among 769 women, 33 (3.9%, 95% CI: 3.0-5.1%) reported SI during pregnancy. In the adjusted analysis, higher odds of SI were associated with being 20 to 34 years old (aOR:0.24, 95% CI: 0.08-0.74) or 35 to 49 years old (aOR:0.15; 95% CI: 0.04-0.50), having 9 to 11 years of education (aOR 0.23, 95% CI: 0.61-0.86), acheiving the highest family income category (aOR:0.08, 95% CI: 0.01-0.58), not living in the South/Southeast regions of Brazil (aOR:5.52, 95% CI: 2.36-12.9), and having probable mild AD (aOR:10.5 95% CI: 2.3-47.9) or moderate AD (aOR:241.3, 95% CI: 58.4-996.7). Conclusions: In Brazil, SI affects almost 4% of pregnant women and is associated with sociodemographic vulnerability. Clinically, women with mild symptoms of depression may also experience SI during pregnancy. These findings are important for designing effective perinatal mental health interventions in LMICs.

The Relationship Between Bonding Impairment and Maternal Postpartum Smoking.

OBJECTIVES: Maternal postpartum smoking is associated with several negative outcomes for mother and child. The relationship between bonding impairment (BI) and maternal postpartum smoking is less known. The aim of the present study was to assess the relationship between BI and maternal postpartum smoking at 6 to 8 months after childbirth in a primary care sample of low-income mothers who had depression during the previous pregnancy. METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional, secondary analysis from a community trial with 356 postpartum women from public primary care clinics in São Paulo, Brazil. The main outcome measure was maternal postpartum smoking. The main exposure variable was BI assessed with the Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire. A socio-demographic questionnaire evaluated maternal and obstetric characteristics. Postpartum depression was assessed with the Patient Health Questionnaire. Crude and adjusted prevalence ratios (PR) of the association between BI and maternal postpartum smoking, with 95% confidence intervals (CI), were calculated using Poisson regression. Multivariate analysis was performed using three models (Model 1 adjusted for randomization during pregnancy, Model 2 adjusted for Model 1 plus mother's socioeconomic and obstetric characteristics, and Model 3 adjusted for Model 2 plus postpartum depression). RESULTS: Maternal postpartum smoking occurred in 16.7% of our sample. In the multivariable analysis, BI was associated with maternal postpartum smoking (PR:2.04; CI 95% 1.08:3.84). CONCLUSIONS FOR PRACTICE: Women presenting bonding problems are at higher risk of smoking after childbirth. Intervention to enhance mother-child bonding may have the potential to decrease maternal postpartum smoking.

The relationship between ultra-processed food consumption and internalising symptoms among adolescents from São Paulo city, Southeast Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption and internalising symptoms (IS) among adolescents. DESIGN: It is a cross-sectional study. Paper-pencil survey was completed in classroom with information on UPF consumption, IS and selected covariates. IS were assessed with the Internalizing Symptoms sub-scale from the Social Behaviour Questionnaire (IS-SBQ). UPF was evaluated with a FFQ extracted from the Brazilian National School Health Survey. Crude and adjusted association between UPF and IS was investigated with structural equation models. SETTING: São Paulo, SP, Brazil. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 2680 students, Mage = 14·85; (95 % CI 14·81, 14·88). RESULTS: UPF consumption was associated with higher scores in IS in the crude (ß = 0·14; P < 0·001) and adjusted (ß = 0·12; P < 0·001) models. The higher the consumption of UPF, the higher is the IS score. The following variables were associated with a lower risk of UPF consumption: male sex, public school and having more meals with parents. The change in the magnitude of the standardised score was almost negligible, but the model was significantly improved with the inclusion of covariates. CONCLUSIONS: Our results provide evidence about the positive association between UPF consumption and IS among adolescents. The association, despite its low magnitude, remained significant after adjusting for potential confounders. These results are relevant considering the increase in UPF consumption worldwide and in low- and middle-income countries. Also, our study emphasises the importance of a healthy diet with a reduction in UPF consumption among adolescents.

Are pregnant women at higher risk of depression underdiagnosis?

BACKGROUND: we aim to estimate the prevalence of depression underdiagnosis among women and whether pregnant women are at higher risk STUDY DESIGN: we used data from the Brazilian National Survey (PNS 2013), a population-based study. All 22.455 women (18-49 years old) answered the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and a questionnaire with sociodemographic, obstetric and clinical data. There were 2.605 (2.491 non-pregnant and 114 pregnant women) depressed women (PHQ-9 >8)with a clinical diagnosis of depression, in the last 30 days. Classification of depression underdiagnosis was made using the comparison between results obtained from the self-referred question evaluating clinical diagnosis of depression by providers and the results of the PHQ-9 application. Women with a PHQ-9 score > 8 and with a "No" answer in the clinical question were classified as depression underdiagnosis. Logistic regression models were performed to obtain crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) RESULTS: Depression underdiagnosis prevalence was 71.2% and was more frequent among pregnant women in comparison with non-pregnant women (88.1% vs 68.0%; p = 0.002). In the adjusted analysis, being pregnant was significantly associated with depression underdiagnosis (aOR 3.55, 95% CI 1.66:7.60). Nonwhite skin color women were also at higher risk of depression underdiagnosis (aOR 1.53, 95% CI 1.09:2.14). LIMITATIONS: the cross-sectional design and the lack of medical records data about assessment of mental health CONCLUSION(S): in Brazil, depression underdiagnosis by providers is prevalent and pregnant women and minority women are at higher risk of not receiving a correct mental health diagnosis.

Prevalence and associated risk factors of prenatal depression underdiagnosis: A population-based study.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate prenatal depression underdiagnosis prevalence and its associated sociodemographic and obstetric risk factors among a population-based sample of Brazilian pregnant women with depression. METHODS: We used data from the Brazilian National Survey (PNS 2013). Of the 22 445 women of reproductive age, 800 reported being pregnant. Participants answered the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and a questionnaire with sociodemographic, obstetric, and clinical data. Classification of prenatal depression underdiagnosis was made using the comparison between results obtained from the self-referred question evaluating clinical diagnosis of depression and the results of the PHQ-9. Pregnant women with a PHQ-9 score greater than 8 and with a "No" answer in the clinical question were classified as prenatal depression underdiagnosis. Logistic regression models were performed to obtain crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) between variables and prenatal depression underdiagnosis. RESULTS: Prevalence of prenatal depression underdiagnosis was 82.3% (74.8%-87.8%). Pregnant women with non-white skin color and pregnant women with an elementary school degree were more likely to be underdiagnosed with prenatal depression in comparison with women with white skin color (adjusted OR 2.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.99-5.91) and with women with higher education (adjusted OR 4.07, 95% CI 2.05-8.09). CONCLUSION: Equitable mental health assistance for pregnant women should considered prenatal depression social risk factors.

The Relationship Between Mother-Child Bonding Impairment and Suicidal Ideation in São Paulo, Brazil.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the association between mother-child bonding at 6-9 months after birth and suicidal ideation METHODS: A cross-sectional study embedded in a clinical trial with 358 low-income postpartum women who had antenatal depression in São Paulo, Brazil. The Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 were used RESULTS: The percentage of the main outcome, suicidal ideation (SI) was 10.3%. Using logistic regression models, bonding impairment (BI) was associated with SI even after controlling for postpartum depression and other covariates. CONCLUSIONS FOR PRACTICE: SI affects 10% of vulnerable postpartum women. BI is independently associated with SI. Treating BI may prevent SI.

Postpartum Depression and Early Predictors of Lower Maternal Confidence at 12 to 15 Months after Delivery.

The objective of the present study is to assess the association of early postpartum depression and maternal confidence with low maternal confidence at 12-15 months after delivery. Prospective study performed from 2013 to 2015 with 358 postpartum women who had participated in a cluster trial to treat their depression during pregnancy. At 6-8 months after birth, we reviewed socio-demographics, obstetric data and Postpartum Depression (PPD) with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Maternal Confidence (MC) was assessed at 6-8 and 12-15 months after birth with the Maternal Confidence Questionnaire. Low and High MC was defined using 50% percentile. The crude and adjusted Odds Ratios (OR) with the 95% Confidence Interval (CI) were calculated using Poisson regression with robust variance. Multivariate models estimated the ORs between postpartum depression and LMC at 12-15 months adjusted for socio-demographic variables, maternal characteristics and previous LMC. Statistical analysis was performed with STATA12 and the significance level was considered equal or lower than 5%. Among a sample of women who were depressed during pregnancy, 19% had probably moderate to severe depression, at the beginning of the child' second year of life. Low maternal confidence was associated with previous low maternal confidence (OR = 1.71; 95% CI 1.33:2.20, p = <0.001) and vaginal delivery but not with previous PPD. Based on our findings, detection and treatment of women presenting confidence problems at the first months after delivery may prevent later mother self-efficacy problems.

Partner relationship quality predicts later postpartum depression independently of the chronicity of depressive symptoms.

OBJECTIVE: Given the lifelong implications of extended postpartum depression (PPD), research is needed to examine the social factors implicated in its development (such as relationship quality) and associated predictors. This study sought to examine the association of partner relationship quality (PRQ) and decline of sexual life (DSL) with maternal PPD at 12-15 months after childbirth. METHODS: Prospective study of 294 low-income postpartum women. A structured questionnaire and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) captured responses for the main outcome variable and covariates. RESULTS: The prevalence of the main outcome (PPD at 12-15 months) was 19.1%. Using logistic regression models, low PRQ (risk ratio [RR] = 1.58, 95%CI 1.01-2.49) and DSL (RR = 1.97, 95%CI 1.23-3.15) were associated with PPD at 12-15 months even after controlling for perinatal depression. CONCLUSIONS: Late PPD (12 to 15 months after giving birth) is very common among low-income women, and is independently associated with different aspects of the couple's relationship. Improving PRQ may prevent late PPD. Future investigations are warranted.

Depression as a mediator between intimate partner violence and postpartum sexual issues: a structural analysis. / Depressão como mediadora da relação entre violência por parceiro íntimo e dificuldades sexuais após o parto: uma análise estrutural.

INTRODUCTION: No studies were found that evaluate the association between intimate partner violence (IPV) before childbirth and sexual issues in the postpartum period. METHOD: A cross-sectional study with 700 women who received prenatal care in a basic health unit in São Paulo, between 2006 and 2007. Sexual issues were assessed through a questionnaire created by the authors, and intimate partner violence was evaluated using a structured questionnaire developed by the WHO. Postpartum depression was evaluated using the SRQ-20 instrument, with a cut-off point of 7/8 considered to be the mediating variable. A path analysis was performed to determine the different pathways: the direct association between outcome and exposure, and the indirect pathways through the mediator. RESULTS: The prevalence of sexual issues, intimate partner violence and postpartum depression were 30; 42.8; 27.8%, respectively. Violence occurring exclusively before childbirth did not show a direct association (ED = 0.072 (-0.06 - 0.20, p = 0.060)) or indirect (EI: 0.045 (-0.06 - 0.20, p = 0.123)), with sexual issues. CONCLUSION: Longitudinal studies that include other mediators may provide a better understanding of the causal chain and elucidate variables that influence postpartum sexuality issues.

Vaccination coverage rates and predictors of HPV vaccination among eligible and non-eligible female adolescents at the Brazilian HPV vaccination public program.

BACKGROUND: Since March 2014, the quadrivalent HPV vaccine has been incorporated into the Brazilian Unified Health Care System and began to be offered, without direct costs, for girls from 9 to 13 years of age. Older female adolescents would have the option to be vaccinated at private health care system being responsible for the payment of HPV vaccine. The present study aimed to evaluate the coverage rates and predictors of HPV vaccination in Brazil among two groups of female adolescents: eligible and non-eligible for the HPV vaccination public program. METHODS: We used data from the 2015 Brazilian National Adolescent School-Based Health Survey, which involved a probabilistic sample of 5404 female adolescents students at public and private schools. Using a questionnaire, we gathered information on sociodemographic characteristics, sexual behavior, and respondent perception of parental supervision and have been vaccinated for HPV. Age-specific vaccination rates were analyzed in girls aged 9 to 13 at the time of public vaccination (eligible for public policy), as well among those 14 to 17 years old not eligible by the Ministry of Health for vaccination. We used Poisson regression models to investigate associated factors. RESULTS: HPV vaccine coverage was 83.5 and 21.8% among eligible and non-eligible populations, respectively. In both populations, the chance of being vaccinated decreased with older age. In the eligible population there is a greater chance of being vaccinated among ethnic group "pardas" but not with other indicators of socioeconomic status. In the non-eligible population, there was a clear association between higher vaccine coverage and greater maternal education and living with the mother. CONCLUSION: Our findings highlight the importance of public policies to minimize inequities in access to cancer prevention measures in vulnerable adolescents. A public policy of HPV vaccination for older female adolescents would increase coverage with possible reduction of HPV-related diseases in this group of women.

Postpartum bonding at the beginning of the second year of child's life: the role of postpartum depression and early bonding impairment.

Background: We evaluated the association between mother-child bonding and maternal depression at 6-8 months after birth with bonding impairment at 12-15 months in a sample of mothers at high risk of postnatal depression.Methods: A prospective cohort study with 346 low-income postpartum women with antenatal depression. The Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire (PBQ) and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) were used, at 6-8 and 12-15 months after delivery, to assess the mother-infant bonding and postnatal depression (PPD), respectively.Results: The percentage of the main outcome, bonding impairment (BI) at 12-15 months, was 9.9% (95% CI 6.6-13.7). Using logistic regression models, BI was associated with: having an occupation (OR = 2.82; 95% CI 1.00-7.94, p = .049), unplanned pregnancy (OR = 3.46; 95% CI 1.01-11.8, p = .047), and presence of BI at 6-8 months (OR= 13.0; 95% CI 3.76-45.4, p ≤ .001). Maternal depression was marginally associated with BI at 12-15 months.Conclusions: BI affects 1 in 10 mothers, and although BI and PPD are strongly associated at 6-8 and 12-15 months after delivery, BI at 6-8 months is the main predictor of later BI. Based on the study findings, PPD screening in combination with BI assessment is highly recommended during the first year of child's life.

The Relationship Between Postpartum Depression and Lower Maternal Confidence in Mothers with a History of Depression During Pregnancy.

The objective of the present study is to evaluate the association of postpartum depression and low maternal confidence in a sample of women who had depression during pregnancy. Cross-sectional study performed from 2013 to 2015 with 346 postpartum women who had participated in an intervention to treat their depression during pregnancy. This study used the Maternal Confidence Questionnaire and the Patient Health Questionnaire 9-item scale. The prevalence ratio, adjusted and non-adjusted, and the 95% CI were calculated using Poisson regression with robust variance. Multivariate models estimated the Prevalence Ratios between postpartum depression and low maternal confidence adjusted for socio-demographic variables and maternal characteristics. Statistical analysis was performed with the STATA12. Among a sample of women who were depressed during pregnancy, only 19% had probably moderate to severe depression and nearly half, 48%, reported high maternal confidence in the postpartum period. In the fully adjusted model, women with moderate/severe probable depression showed increased risk of lower maternal confidence in comparison to women without probable depression Prevalence Ratio = 1.37 (95% CI 1.10-1.71). The results reinforce the importance of the evaluation of maternal confidence feelings in primary care particularly for women with more severe forms of depression.

Depressão como mediadora da relação entre violência por parceiro íntimo e dificuldades sexuais após o parto: uma análise estrutural / Depression as a mediator between intimate partner violence and postpartum sexual issues: a structural analysis

RESUMO: Introdução: Não foram encontrados estudos que avaliam associação entre violência por parceiro íntimo (VPI) anterior ao parto e dificuldades na esfera da sexualidade no período pós-parto. O presente estudo avalia se existe essa associação. Método: Estudo transversal com 700 mulheres que realizaram o pré-natal em Unidade Básica de Saúde (UBS), em São Paulo, entre 2006 e 2007. As dificuldades sexuais (DS) foram avaliadas por meio de questionário elaborado pelos autores e a VPI foi investigada por questionário estruturado elaborado pela Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS). Já a depressão pós-parto (DPP) foi avaliada por meio do Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20) e foi considerada variável mediadora. Para calcular os coeficientes de associação das vias diretas e indiretas foi utilizada a análise estrutural (path analysis). Resultados: As prevalências de DS, a VPI e a DPP foram, respectivamente, 30, 42,8 e 27,8%. A violência ocorrida antes do parto não mostrou associação direta - ED = 0,072 (-0,06 - 0,20; p = 0,060) - nem indireta - EI: 0,045 (-0,06 - 0,20; p = 0,123) - em relação ao desfecho estudado. Conclusão: Futuras investigações sobre a relação entre as três variáveis estudadas são recomendadas. Estudos longitudinais que incluam outros mediadores podem trazer melhor entendimento da cadeia causal e elucidação das variáveis que influenciam as questões da sexualidade no pós-parto.

ABSTRACT: Introduction: No studies were found that evaluate the association between intimate partner violence (IPV) before childbirth and sexual issues in the postpartum period. Method: A cross-sectional study with 700 women who received prenatal care in a basic health unit in São Paulo, between 2006 and 2007. Sexual issues were assessed through a questionnaire created by the authors, and intimate partner violence was evaluated using a structured questionnaire developed by the WHO. Postpartum depression was evaluated using the SRQ-20 instrument, with a cut-off point of 7/8 considered to be the mediating variable. A path analysis was performed to determine the different pathways: the direct association between outcome and exposure, and the indirect pathways through the mediator. Results: The prevalence of sexual issues, intimate partner violence and postpartum depression were 30; 42.8; 27.8%, respectively. Violence occurring exclusively before childbirth did not show a direct association (ED = 0.072 (-0.06 - 0.20, p = 0.060)) or indirect (EI: 0.045 (-0.06 - 0.20, p = 0.123)), with sexual issues. Conclusion: Longitudinal studies that include other mediators may provide a better understanding of the causal chain and elucidate variables that influence postpartum sexuality issues.