Latent Profiles of Traumatic Psychological Responses and Their Association With Postpartum Depression Among High-Risk Pregnant Women: A Latent Profile Analysis

Background: High-risk pregnancy often triggers diverse traumatic-related psychological responses, which can affect postpartum depression outcomes. Identifying these response patterns is key to developing targeted interventions. Objective: We sought to classify traumatic psychological response profiles in high-risk pregnant women and examine their associations with postpartum depression. Methods: We recruited 518 high-risk pregnant women from obstetric departments. Participants completed the Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist-Civilian Version during the third trimester, along with assessments of demographic characteristics, coping strategies, and pregnancy stress. Postpartum depression was assessed at 6 to 8 weeks postpartum using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Latent profile analysis was employed to identify profiles. Results: Three latent profiles were identified: High Growth (34.0%), Traumatic Distressed (27.2%), and Moderate Combined (38.8%). Residence, education level, family income, coping strategies, and higher pregnancy stress are influencing factors in the Traumatic Distressed profile. Postpartum depression differed significantly across profiles ( F = 62.97, P < .001). Conclusion: Distinct traumatic response profiles exist among high-risk pregnant women, with the Traumatic Distressed profile showing the greatest risk for postpartum depression. Conversely, High Growth was linked to favorable outcomes. Tailored interventions addressing psycho-social and socioeconomic vulnerabilities are warranted.