Family Dysfunction and Depression During Pregnancy in a Family Medicine Unit in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico

Abstract

Objective: To determine the association between family dysfunction and depression in pregnant women registered at a family medicine unit. Methods: Observational, analytical, and cross-sectional study. Non-probability sample of pregnant women from Family Medicine Unit Number 67 of the Mexican Social Security Institute in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico. The Family APGAR test was used to assess family functioning, and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was administered. Informed consent was obtained from all interviewed patients. Results: The mean age was 24.5 ± 5 years, with the 18-24 age group predominating (61.8%), common-law marriage (46.5%) and a high school education (50.6%). The prevalence of depression was 14.2% (12.4% mild, 1.8% moderate); family dysfunction was 14.1% (12.4% mild, 1.8% moderate). A statistically significant association was found between depression and family dysfunction (χ²=22.692, p<0.001). Conclusions: Family dysfunction was significantly associated with depression in this group of pregnant women at the primary care. It is recommended that psychosocial screening strategies be implemented during prenatal care for the early detection and comprehensive care of depression in pregnant women.