Antenatal Depressive Symptoms and Neurodevelopment Outcomes in Children at 24 Months in a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Prospective Cohort Observational Study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v7i2.2717Keywords:
Antenatal depression, neurodevelopment, child development, maternal mental health, developmental delay, pregnancyAbstract
Background
Maternal psychological health during pregnancy can significantly influence fetal neurodevelopment and long-term child outcomes. Antenatal depressive symptoms may adversely affect cognitive, language, motor, and socio-emotional development in offspring. However, evidence from resource-constrained settings in eastern India remains limited.
Objective
To evaluate the association between antenatal depressive symptoms and neurodevelopmental outcomes among children at 24 months of age attending a tertiary care hospital.
Methods
A prospective cohort observational study was conducted among 60 mother–child dyads at a tertiary care hospital in Odisha. Pregnant women were screened for depressive symptoms during antenatal visits and categorized into depressive symptom-positive and negative groups. Children were followed until 24 months, and neurodevelopment was assessed across cognitive, language, motor, and social domains. Data were analyzed using chi-square test, independent t-test, correlation, and logistic regression analyses.
Results
Among 60 mothers, 22 (36.7%) had antenatal depressive symptoms. Children exposed to maternal depressive symptoms had significantly lower cognitive (84.7±8.5 vs 95.6±7.2, p<0.001), language (82.9±9.1 vs 93.8±8.0, p<0.001), and social functioning scores (80.3±10.4 vs 91.5±8.2, p<0.001). Developmental delay was more common among exposed children (40.9% vs 13.2%, p=0.018). Antenatal depressive symptoms independently predicted developmental delay (Adjusted OR=3.41, 95% CI: 1.18–9.84).
Conclusion
Antenatal depressive symptoms were significantly associated with poorer neurodevelopmental outcomes at 24 months. Early identification and intervention may improve developmental outcomes.
Recommendation
Routine antenatal screening for depressive symptoms and early developmental surveillance of exposed children should be integrated into maternal healthcare services.
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