Depression and anxiety in the pregnant Omani population in relation to their fatty acid intake and levels

Abstract

Introduction: Maternal depression during and after pregnancy is a worldwide public concern. Low FAs levels and intake in women during pregnancy were associated with a high rate of maternal depression and poor pregnancy outcomes. The study examines the association between vitamin levels, FAs intake and levels and prenatal depressive and anxiety symptoms and pregnancy outcomes among pregnant Arabic-speaking women in Oman. Methodology: In 300 pregnant Omani women, level of depression and anxiety is assessed at the 8-12 and 24-28 weeks of pregnancy using the Arabic version of (EPDS). Seafood and the omega-3 FAs intakes of pregnant women has been quantified by using a validated (FFQ). Maternal Vitamins levels were assessed, and FAs analysis of erythrocytes was carried out using the method of Folch et al. Results: Maternal depression and anxiety symptoms (30.5% and 26.1%) were associated with low fish consumption and omega-3 FAs intake with depressive and anxiety symptoms (p = 0.01), Women with antenatal depression or anxiety symptoms had a lower erythrocyte concentration of arachidonic acid (20:4 n-6), (p = 0.01), total omega-6 FAs, (p = 0.03), docosahexaenoic acid (22:6 n-3) (p = 0.03), docosapentaenoic acid (22:5 n-3) (p = 0.04), eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5 n-3) (p= 0.005), total omega 3 FAs (p = 0.005), omega-3 index (p = 0.01) and (AA+DHA)/MUFAs (p = 0.01), but a higher omega-6/omega-3 ratio (p = 0.04), compared to healthy pregnant women. These findings did not change after adjusting for potential confounders. The study outcomes show a significant relationship linking fish and omega-3 FAs intake with GDM PE, and birthweight centiles (p = 0.031). Conclusions: Maternal fatty acids exert a favourable effect on vital perinatal health outcomes. Fish and seafood intake or omega-3 FAs supplementation are highly recommended for women during pregnancy to ensure the well-being of both the mother and fetus.