Trend of Antenatal Depression and Its Risk Factors Among Pregnant Women in China From 2016 to 2021: A Repeated Cross-Sectional Study Under Multiple Fertility Policy Adjustments and Economic Development

Abstract

Background: The objective of the current study was to evaluate the trend and risk factors of antenatal depression (AD) among Chinese women in the third trimester of pregnancy, taking into account the impact of multiple fertility policy adjustments and economic development in China.

Method: A repeated cross-sectional study design was used. A total of 3404 pregnant women at 30–42 weeks’ gestation were recruited from the two largest maternity hospitals in Zhejiang Province, China, between 2016 and 2021.

Results: The prevalence of AD among women in their third trimester of pregnancy had significantly increased from 31.8% to 60.6% (p  < 0.001) from 2016 to 2021. Pregnant women aged between 18 and 24 years reported the highest prevalence of AD. Those aged between 25 and 34 years (odds ratio [OR], 0.788; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.630–0.985), with a better self-reported health status (OR, 0.929; 95% CI: 0.922–0.936) and higher perceived social support (OR, 0.948; 95% CI: 0.940–0.955), reported a lower prevalence of AD. Pregnant women who were housewives (OR, 1.399; 95% CI: 1.078–1.817), had an introverted personality (OR, 1.324; 95% CI: 1.119–1.568), and had experienced an unplanned pregnancy (OR, 1.303; 95% CI: 1.098–1.547) reported a higher prevalence of AD.

Conclusions: The significant increase in the prevalence of AD from 2016 to 2021 has caused concern in society. To improve the aforementioned situation, it is imperative to implement further initiatives to address the challenges faced by pregnant women, especially those who are housewives, have introverted personalities, and have experienced unplanned pregnancies.