Received 14 May 2015; Received in revised form 19 October 2015; Accepted 11 November 2015; Available online 18 November 2015 | Alessandra Biaggi, Susan Conroy, Susan Pawlby, Carmine M. Pariante
This systematic review aims to identify the main risk factors associated with antenatal anxiety and depression. The study conducted a literature review using databases such as PubMed, PsychINFO, and the Cochrane Library, focusing on papers published between January 1, 2003, and August 31, 2015. A total of 97 papers were selected for analysis. The key risk factors identified include lack of social support, history of abuse or domestic violence, personal history of mental illness, unplanned or unwanted pregnancy, adverse life events, high perceived stress, pregnancy complications, and pregnancy loss. The review highlights the complex etiology of antenatal anxiety and depression and emphasizes the importance of universal screening to identify women at risk, promoting long-term well-being for both mothers and babies. The findings also suggest that specific risk factors may help in developing targeted screening tools for high-risk groups.This systematic review aims to identify the main risk factors associated with antenatal anxiety and depression. The study conducted a literature review using databases such as PubMed, PsychINFO, and the Cochrane Library, focusing on papers published between January 1, 2003, and August 31, 2015. A total of 97 papers were selected for analysis. The key risk factors identified include lack of social support, history of abuse or domestic violence, personal history of mental illness, unplanned or unwanted pregnancy, adverse life events, high perceived stress, pregnancy complications, and pregnancy loss. The review highlights the complex etiology of antenatal anxiety and depression and emphasizes the importance of universal screening to identify women at risk, promoting long-term well-being for both mothers and babies. The findings also suggest that specific risk factors may help in developing targeted screening tools for high-risk groups.