(PS7-49) Support from Partners and Mothers in Perinatal Individuals: Lasting Impacts of Childhood Experiences

Abstract Text: Studies have demonstrated that early life stressors, such as childhood adversity or unpredictability can impair social support networks later in life, making it essential to consider their long-term effects. (Elmer, 2024; Sutton, 2019; Vaillancourt-Morel et al., 2024). While previous research has explored these relationships in broader populations, little is known about how these factors specifically manifest during the perinatal period, when social support plays a pivotal role in mental and physical health outcomes (Bedaso et al., 2021; Tilahune et al., 2022). This study aims to understand the lasting influences of maternal childhood experiences on perceptions of support from her mother and partner during the perinatal period for marginalized individuals.

This analysis used baseline data for a study of a postpartum depression prevention program. Participants (N = 299) enrolled at a Federally-Qualified Health Center and were on average 27.90 years. The mean gestational age was 18.93 weeks. Most of the participants (63%) identified as Hispanic/Latina(e). Participants were offered multi-selection choices for race and 52% identified as European, North African, or Middle Eastern; 19% identified as Black, African American, or Haitian; and 22% identified as other. Additionally, 75% of participants were in committed romantic relationships, and 50% were married. Through a REDCap survey, participants reported on demographics, adverse childhood experiences, childhood unpredictability, and perceptions of support from both their partner and mother.

Regression analysis indicated that both traumatic and unpredictable childhood experiences may predict perceptions of social support during the perinatal period. Specifically, greater childhood unpredictability (β = -0.75, p < .001) and more adverse childhood experiences (β = -0.58, p = .02) were associated with lower support from one's mother. Additionally, only greater childhood unpredictability was significantly related to lower support from a current partner (β = -0.15, p = .002), while adverse childhood experiences were not.

These findings suggest that adverse and unpredictable childhood experiences shape perceptions of support later, in pregnancy. Given the heightened need for support during pregnancy, interventions could focus on strengthening support from participant’s partner and mother, especially for those with early life stressors. Future research should explore mechanisms, particularly to understand how support and perceptions of support may differ and address positive ways relationships with partners may buffer childhood adversity and promote well-being.