Masters Degrees (Psychiatry)

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The impact of perinatal trauma and HIV exposure on maternal mental health and infant social-emotional development in Khayelitsha, South Africa.
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2023-12) Motingoe, Kediemetse; Lachman, Anusha; Laughton, Barbara; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Dept. of Psychiatry.
ENGLISH SUMMARY: There is limited knowledge on the impact of HIV and trauma exposure on maternal mental health and infant social-emotional development. This study investigated pregnant women living with HIV, with either late or early initiation of antiretroviral therapy, and those not living with HIV and their infants. These mother-child dyads were followed up for 12 months postnatally. Maternal trauma levels, infant social withdrawal and symbolic play were evaluated using the Harvard Trauma Scale, Alarm distress baby scale, and the Belsky tests, respectively. This study showed low rates of PTSD compared to previous studies in this setting, with HIV status not showing significant differences in trauma exposure. There was insignificant impact of maternal HIV and trauma causing infant withdrawal and poor symbolic play. Larger, longer-term studies are necessary for further exploration.