https://unilagsociologyjournals.com/articlepage/169

Abstract

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are recognized as significant risk factors for developing anxiety and depression later in life. During pregnancy, such experiences can have detrimental outcomes. This study aimed to determine the relationship between ACEs, anxiety and depression prevalence and history of interpersonal violence (IPV) among pregnant women. In this cross-sectional study, pregnant women in their third trimester were enrolled from five antenatal clinics in Lagos, Nigeria. Questionnaires utilized included sociodemographic details, IPV experiences, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE), and Anxiety and Depression symptoms using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28 was used to analyse data. Mean age of participants (n= 500) was 29.7 years (SD ± 5.2). Prevalence of probable depression and anxiety was 19.2% and 15% respectively, and 10.2% had toxic stress levels based on high ACE scores. Statistically significant relationships were found between toxic ACE scores and the presence of depression (p < 0.001) and anxiety (p < 0.002). There was a significant relationship between toxic ACE scores and IPV history obtained. This study highlights an association between reported adverse childhood experiences and prevalence of probable depression and anxiety in pregnant women in the study location. Integration of ACE and IPV screening and support in prenatal care is proposed as a strategy to aid detection and by extension improve maternal and infant mental health outcomes.