Depression and Anxiety Disorders in Patients with Hyperemesis Gravidarum and the Effect of This Disease on the Quality of Life

Abstract

Background: Hyperemesis gravidarum can lead to depression or anxiety disorder in pregnant women more frequently than serious complications. This situation can significantly deteriorate the quality of life of the pregnant woman. In our study, it was aimed to investigate the levels of depression and anxiety in patients with hyperemesis gravidarum, and to analyze the effect of hyperemesis on quality of life. Materials and Methods: The study included 87 patients diagnosed with hyperemesis and 24 patients without hyperemesis admitted to our hospital between the dates of 01.04.2018-01.10.2018. All participants received Beck Anxiety Inventory, Beck Depression Inventory and 12-question quality of life (SF-12) forms. Results: The mean age of the patients included in the study was 25.4±5.0 years (Age range: 17-39 years). Minimal minimal anxiety and depression were detected in all participants. There was no significant difference between the group of patients diagnosed with hyperemesis and the control group in terms of mean depression score (p=0.161) and anxiety score (p=0.266). No significant difference was found in terms of the distribution of depression and anxiety levels between the groups (p=0.46 and p=0.557, respectively). Conclusion: In conclusion, our findings show that anxiety and depression levels cannot be directly correlated with hyperemesis gravidarum. However, it is necessary to closely monitor the psychological status of pregnant women diagnosed with hyperemesis, to perform the necessary supportive treatments and to improve their quality of life.