Abstract
Research exploring the effects of prenatal maternal depression on a developing fetus and child is underrepresented in the
literature. Empirical papers have typically focused on the effects of postpartum depression (after birth) instead of prepartum
depression (before birth). Disparate empirical findings have produced ongoing debate regarding the effects of prenatal depression
on a developing fetus and later in infancy and early childhood. Even more controversial is determining the role of antidepressant
medication on offspring outcomes and whether research that does not include the proper control population (e.g., unmedicated
depressed participants) can adequately address questions about risks and benefits of treatment during pregnancy. The current
review systematically summarizes the literature focusing on unmedicated prenatal depression and offspring outcome and concludes
that prepartum depression is highly prevalent, is associated with negative outcomes in offspring, and remains understudied.
literature. Empirical papers have typically focused on the effects of postpartum depression (after birth) instead of prepartum
depression (before birth). Disparate empirical findings have produced ongoing debate regarding the effects of prenatal depression
on a developing fetus and later in infancy and early childhood. Even more controversial is determining the role of antidepressant
medication on offspring outcomes and whether research that does not include the proper control population (e.g., unmedicated
depressed participants) can adequately address questions about risks and benefits of treatment during pregnancy. The current
review systematically summarizes the literature focusing on unmedicated prenatal depression and offspring outcome and concludes
that prepartum depression is highly prevalent, is associated with negative outcomes in offspring, and remains understudied.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category Review Article
- Pages 1-14
- DOI 10.1007/s00737-011-0251-1
- Authors
- Deana B. Davalos, Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80525, USA
- Carly A. Yadon, Department of Psychology, Missouri State University, Springfield, MO 65897, USA
- Hope C. Tregellas, Department of Psychiatry, University of Denver at Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Journal Archives of Women’s Mental Health
- Online ISSN 1435-1102
- Print ISSN 1434-1816