Association Between Hyperemesis Gravidarum and Postpartum Depression: A Case–Control Study

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to evaluate postpartum depressive symptoms in pregnant women diagnosed with hyperemesis gravidarum (HEG) and to identify clinical predictors associated with increased depression risk.
METHODS: This retrospective case–control study included 80 pregnant women diagnosed with HEG and 80 healthy pregnant women matched for maternal age and gestational age. Sociodemographic characteristics, obstetric outcomes, laboratory parameters, and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) scores were recorded. An EPDS score ≥13 was considered indicative of postpartum depression (PPD). Correlation analyses and both univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of PPD.
RESULTS: Median EPDS scores were significantly higher in the HEG group compared with controls (p < 0.001). PPD was present in 20% of the HEG group and 7.5% of controls (p = 0.022). In the entire cohort, HEG was identified as an independent predictor of PPD (aOR: 3.319, 95% CI: 1.167–9.446, p = 0.025). Within the HEG group, BMI was found to be an independent predictor of PPD (aOR: 1.101, 95% CI: 1.012–1.198, p = 0.026). Gestational age at delivery and birth weight were also lower in the HEG group (p < 0.05).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Pregnant women with HEG have a significantly higher risk of postpartum depression. Routine psychological screening, particularly with EPDS, may facilitate early detection and improve maternal mental health outcomes.

Keywords: Hyperemesis gravidarum, postpartum depression, EPDS, maternal mental health.