Investigating the Relationship Between Self‐Compassion and Marital Satisfaction in Pregnant Women With Depression: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Bita Ashabi, Arezoo Haseli, Shahab Rezaeian, Ehsan Mahmoodi, Mastaneh KamravamaneshABSTRACT
Background and Aims
Antenatal depression is a prevalent mental health concern that can adversely affect marital relationships. Self‐compassion has emerged as a potential protective factor in improving psychological health and interpersonal relationships. This cross‐sectional study aimed to investigate the relationship between self‐compassion and marital satisfaction in pregnant women with depression.
Methods
In this cross‐sectional analytical study, 240 pregnant women with depression were selected through convenience sampling from healthcare centers in Kermanshah, Iran. Depression was assessed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) with a cutoff score > 12, and all participants met DSM‐5 criteria for depressive symptoms. Participants completed the Self‐Compassion Scale–Long Form, Hudson's Marital Satisfaction Inventory, and a demographic questionnaire. The cross‐sectional design and convenience sampling limit the generalizability of findings.
Results
The mean age was 27.68 years (SD = 4.63). Logistic regression revealed that a one‐unit increase in total self‐compassion score was associated with a 10% increase in the odds of being in the satisfied group (OR = 1.10; 95% CI: 1.07–1.12; p < 0.001). “Common human experience” showed the strongest association (OR = 1.64; 95% CI: 1.43–1.87; p < 0.001). Positive components—self‐kindness ( r = 0.552), common humanity ( r = 0.561), and well‐being ( r = 0.519)—had significant positive correlations with marital satisfaction, while negative components—self‐judgment ( r = −0.462), isolation ( r = −0.506), and over‐identification ( r = −0.446)—showed significant negative correlations (all p < 0.001).
Conclusion
Self‐compassion, particularly its positive components, is significantly associated with higher marital satisfaction in depressed pregnant women. Self‐compassion‐based interventions may be a promising strategy to improve marital relationship quality and maternal mental health during pregnancy.