Evaluation of symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with a miscarriage

Miscarriages are a common complication of pregnancy that can cause psychological and physical distress. This loss may be followed by a period of mourning, so multiple studies have evaluated the quality of life in patients with miscarriages with subsequent medical or surgical treatment, reporting data suggesting that these patients may develop symptoms of depression and anxiety after the procedure. We conducted a cross-sectional, survey type analysis of patients with diagnosis of miscarriage who were surgically treated (MVA/D&C). A HADS survey for assessment of depression and anxiety symptoms was applied. One hundred and twenty patients were enrolled with a diagnosis of miscarriage and were surgically treated, of these patients 41.7% reported symptoms suggestive of depression and/or anxiety at some degree. When analyzing the relationship between a history of depression and symptoms of anxiety or depression post-abortion, a significant positive relationship was established (p = 0.002). The application of surveys for symptoms of anxiety or depression is a useful, in-hospital tool to diagnose patients who are prone to any of these entities allowing diagnosis and treatment.