Prevalence of depression and anxiety, and associated variables among expectant mothers in Bucaramanga and Floridablanca (Santander, Colombia)

Introduction. Depression and anxiety frequently affect women at their reproductive age, and are associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. The prevalence among the Colombian population at low obstetric risk is unknown. This research intends to determine the prevalence of gestational depression and anxiety, as well as any associated variables, among women of Bucaramanga and Floridablanca, Santander. Methodology. A cross-sectional descriptive study based on a survey and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), the Family APGAR scale, and the Questionnaire of Perceived Social Support. Reasons of prevalence were established. Results. Among 244 expectant mothers with an average age of 24.8 years, depression was prevalent in 24.6 % of them, and anxiety in 25.8 %. Depression is associated with a family history of depression at a prevalence ratio (PR) of 2.0; anxiety at a PR of 22.5, and alcohol consumption at a PR of 2.9. One identified protective factor was that the patient had two sources of income (spouse and family), at a PR of 0.6. Anxiety was associated with the presence of depression at a PR of 13.3; the presence of psychological violence at a PR of 2.3, and lack of trust in the spouse at a PR of 3.4. Discussion. The study is one of the first local studies. It approaches depression and anxiety during pregnancy in low-obstetric risk populations, with findings that are congruent with those reported in literature. Conclusion. Anxiety and depression are strongly associated. We recommend detecting psychosocial morbidity.