The influence of perinatal depression on marital relationships in high-risk pregnant women: A parallel process latent growth model

Background Perinatal depression and marital satisfaction are key factors in pregnant women's successful adaptation to parenthood and the maternal role. However, most existing studies have primarily used cross-sectional data to explain the relationship between depression and marital satisfaction, lacking a longitudinal perspective to capture their dynamic changes from pregnancy through the postpartum period. Methods Therefore, this study aimed to explore how depressive symptoms over time influence marital satisfaction in 157 high-risk perinatal women in South Korea, using a parallel latent growth model. Depression levels were assessed at 24–32 weeks of gestation (T1), 6 weeks postpartum (T2), and 12 weeks postpartum (T3). Results The results showed a significant negative correlation between depression and marital satisfaction (r = -0.17 to -0.32, p  < .05). The parallel latent growth model revealed that a faster decrease in depressive symptoms was associated with greater improvements in marital satisfaction (β = -0.54, p  < .001). Although baseline depression did not significantly predict initial marital satisfaction, its declining trend over time was meaningful. Conclusions These findings highlight the importance of early depression screening and timely intervention during pregnancy, particularly for high-risk women, to support their maternal role adaptation and facilitate a positive transition into this new life stage.