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Influence of parity and infant age on maternal self‐efficacy, social support, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum depression in the first six months in the Maritime Provinces, Canada

2021; Wiley; Volume: 48; Issue: 3 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1111/birt.12553

1523-536X

Justine Dol, Brianna Richardson, Amy Grant, Megan Aston, Douglas McMillan, Gail Tomblin Murphy, Marsha Campbell‐Yeo,

Attachment and Relationship Dynamics

Abstract Background After giving birth, women experience significant changes related to maternal self‐efficacy and social support and are at risk of experiencing postpartum anxiety and depression. Problem No studies have focused on the relationship between parity and infant age and their impact on psychosocial outcomes, particularly in a Canadian context. Aim To explore the relationship between parity and infant age on perceived maternal self‐efficacy, social support, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum depression. Methods Women from three Canadian provinces within the first 6 months postpartum completed standardized online questionnaires. Multivariate analysis of covariance was used to examine the primary aim. Findings A total of 561 women (56.5% primiparous, 55.1% infant 0‐3 months) participated. There were significant main effects for both parity ( P < .001) and age of infant ( P < .001), but no significant interaction ( P = .463). Primiparous women had lower maternal self‐efficacy ( P = .004) and higher postpartum anxiety ( P = .000) than multiparous women. Women with younger infants had more perceived social support ( P = .002). Women with older infants had higher levels of postpartum anxiety ( P = .003) and depression ( P = .000). Discussion The transition that women experience, independent of parity, within the first six months is dynamic with women of older infants experiencing more postpartum mental health concerns and less perceived social support. Our findings emphasize that postnatal support should extend beyond the typical six‐week follow‐up period. Conclusions Additional studies are warranted to determine ways to provide ongoing support throughout the first six months and beyond to improve maternal well‐being and address postpartum needs.