The effects of depressive symptoms on healthy lifestyle behaviors during pregnancy depression and healthy lifestyle behaviors during pregnancy

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of depressive symptoms on healthy lifestyle behaviors during pregnancy. Material and Methods: This is a descriptive and cross-sectional study. The study was conducted with 314 pregnant women between June and December 2021. The data of the study were collected by faceto-face interview method using Introductory Information Form, Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale and Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Scale-II. Number, percentage, mean, standard deviation (min-max.) and spearman correlation analysis were used in the analysis of the data. Results: Results indicated that 19.1% of pregnant women were found to be at risk for depression (Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale≥12). While the mean the Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Scale-II total scores of pregnant women were 136.83±24.11, the highest subscale was "Spiritual Development" with a mean score of 26.55±5.27, and the lowest subscale was "Physical Activity" with a mean score of 15.59±4.91. A negative and significant correlation was found between the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale and the Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Scale-II total scores and the mean scores of spiritual development, nutrition, physical activity (low correlation), and stress management subscales (moderate correlation) (p<0.05). Conclusion: It was determined that as the level of symptoms of depression during pregnancy increased, the spiritual development, adequate and balanced nutrition, physical activity, stress management and healthy lifestyle behaviors of pregnant women decreased. Women should be screened for depression starting from the pre-pregnancy period and counseling for depression should be provided by health professionals.