Identification of predictor variables of a postpartum emotional reaction.

Clinical observations and research suggest that postpartum emotional reactions (PEREA) are a widespread phenomenon. Prenatal identification of women who are at risk is essential if health professionals are to intervene and prevent long-term problems for the mother and her family. Health status, previous psychiatric history, locus of control, psychosocial assets, and life change events, as well as maternal adaptation to pregnancy and motherhood were examined in this study as possible predictor variables of a postpartum emotional reaction. Twenty-seven expectant women were assessed once prenatally and twice in the postpartum period. The data revealed that 59% of the participants, both primiparas and multiparas, experienced an increase in negative affect at some stage of the pregnancy and/or within 4 to 6 weeks postpartum. There were no significant differences between those who developed a PEREA and those who did not on the following variables: planned versus unplanned pregnancy, desired versus undesired pregnancy, attendance at prenatal class, and feeding plans. There was a significant association (p less than .01) between breastfeeding and the occurrence of a PEREA at 4 to 6 weeks postpartum among the primiparas. The study demonstrated that there was no single cause but several factors that, if present in combination, were predictive of an emotional reaction postpartum. Locus of control and existing emotional reactions, especially prenatal depression, were the most important predictor variables. The individual's ability to adapt to day-to-day life was influenced by the presence or absence of a combination of factors. These included preexisting emotional reactions, perceived locus of control, health status, and/or stress.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)