Causes and attributions of depression during pregnancy

Abstract

Pregnancy is a complex biological process occurring in a significant psychosocial context. Information about biological alterations in depression and pregnancy provides some clues as to why many pregnant women experience some of the symptoms of depression. Because it is unlikely that there is a single determinant, causal attributions may determine more of how depression during pregnancy is treated and experienced than focusing on biochemical correlates of depressive symptoms. Studies considered here point out the diagnostic confusion between the normal course of pregnancy and depressive disorders, and suggest interpretations and interventions which may be helpful when depression during pregnancy does occur.