The strongest predictor of whether or not a woman would have postnatal depression was whether she was depressed shortly before giving birth, also known as the antenatal period, Drs. To date, research and treatment efforts have targeted postnatal depression, the researchers note, but less is known about risk factors for antenatal depression and early parenting stress. The researchers identified seven significant risk factors for antenatal depression, with the strongest being antenatal anxiety, low self esteem and low levels of social support. The strongest risk factor for whether or not a woman would report postnatal depression was whether she experienced antenatal depression, while parenting stress and a history of depression also increased risk. The only risk factor for parenting stress was postnatal depression. And while antenatal depression doesn't directly contribute to parenting stress, they say, postnatal depression serves as a link between the two. read more

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