Psychological profiles of mothers after preterm birth: A research conducted in Cameroon

Introduction: Empirical studies have shown the presence of symptoms of trauma, anxiety, and depression in mothers after preterm birth. In most studies, these symptoms are associated with biological and social factors. Another approach in psychopathology suggests that symptoms are related to dysfunctional psychological processes that mediate the effect biological and social factors. Firstly, the present study aimed to evaluate the percentage of trauma, anxiety, and depression in mothers of preterm babies living in Cameroon. Secondly, the study aimed to test the relationship of these symptoms with anhedonia and repetitive negative thoughts. Methods: Mothers were invited to participate in this study within the first 10 days after their preterm delivery. They completed standardised measures for symptoms (PCL-5, HADS-A and HADS-D) and for psychological processes (SBI, Mini-CERTS and PSWQ). A linear regression was performed to test the prediction of symptoms by psychological processes. Results: A sample of 123 mothers was recruited from two hospitals in Douala. The results show that 76.4% of mothers report at least one trauma, anxiety, or depression. Anhedonia and repetitive negative thoughts predict 24% of trauma symptoms, 26% of anxiety symptoms, and 20% of depression symptoms. Conclusion: In Cameroon, preterm delivery is a major threat to the mental health of the mother. There is therefore a need for systematic screening after preterm birth and early intervention to reduce these symptoms and thus improve the well-being of the mother and child after preterm delivery.