"It is a bit unique that Sweden is investing in this field with such a modern method," says Alkistis Skalkidou, professor at the Department of Women's and Children's Health at Uppsala University, who leads the research project.
According to Alkistis Skalkidou, seventh or eighth women suffered from birth depression at some point during pregnancy or after childbirth. The purpose of the study is to make it easier for healthcare to identify which women are about to enter a depression at an early stage.
- It is early detection that is the purpose, so that they receive treatment on time or preventative measures.
Uses an app
The researchers will collect data through the mobile app MOM2B. Pregnant or newly redeemed women who want to be part of the study do so by downloading the app.
The hope is to be able to analyze data from around 20,000 women.
- Through this, the women can get all the information about the study in the app. They can read about the study, email us questions, call and then they can give consent and signature through the app.
The voice changes during depression
In the application, women can, among other things, answer survey questions. The program also records how women move, how much they use mobile and social media.
The application uses artificial intelligence and analyzes women's voices over time to find indications of depression development.
- There are changes in the voice before you suffer a depression, says Alkistis Skalkidou.