Effect of Peripartum Counseling on Salivary Cortisol and Depression in Late Pregnancy and Early Postpartum

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effect of peripartum counseling during the third trimester and early postpartum period on salivary cortisol levels and peripartum depression incidence in pregnant and postpartum patients.
Study Design: Non-randomized controlled trial study
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Dr.Soetomo General Hospital and Airlangga University Hospital in Indonesia from September 2024 to January 2025.
Methods: This non-randomized controlled trial used a pretest-posttest control group design. Participants from the Obstetrics and Postpartum Outpatient Clinics underwent salivary cortisol testing and psychological assessment with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). The intervention included structured peripartum counseling focused on maternal self-confidence, emotional regulation, and marital satisfaction.
Results: There was no significant difference in salivary cortisol levels between the treatment and control groups (p > 0.05), though the treatment group showed a decreasing trend. However, a significant reduction in EPDS scores was observed in the treatment group compared to the control group (p < 0.05), indicating an improvement in depressive symptoms.
Conclusion: Peripartum counseling may help reduce symptoms of peripartum depression, though it did not significantly impact salivary cortisol levels. Further research with longer interventions, multiple cortisol
measurements, and larger sample sizes is recommended to enhance understanding and optimize intervention strategies.