Does Anxiety Sensitivity Predict Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms Following Childbirth? A Preliminary Report

The aim of the current study was to investigate whether prenatal levels of anxiety sensitivity would predict post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms following childbirth. A total of 40 women completed a series of self-report measures, including the Anxiety Sensitivity Index and the General Health Questionnaire at 36 weeks gestation. The women were followed-up 2 weeks postpartum with self-report measures of post-traumatic stress disorder, mood and birth experiences. Correlational analysis revealed that a combination of pre- and postnatal psychological factors as well as obstetric events was related to post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. Regression analysis revealed that prenatal anxiety sensitivity predicted post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, suggesting that anxiety sensitivity may act as an important vulnerability factor in psychopathological responses to childbirth. Further investigation into this construct seems warranted.