The trajectory of postpartum maternal sensitivity: A longitudinal study with a sample of Ecuadorian mothers Trayectoria de la sensibilidad materna durante el primer año posparto: Un estudio longitudinal con una muestra de madres ecuatorianas

Objective: To examine the trajectory of maternal sensitivity during the first postpartum year and its association with maternal age, relationship satisfaction, and depressive symptoms. Method: Sixty first-time mothers from Quito, Ecuador, were assessed during the third trimester of pregnancy and at 3, 9, and 12 months postpartum. Maternal sensitivity was evaluated through observational coding (ADS–Sens), and depressive symptoms (EPDS) and relationship satisfaction (RAS) were measured using self-report scales. A latent growth model was estimated. Results: A small but statistically significant linear increase in maternal sensitivity was observed. Maternal age was associated with a more attenuated increase over time, and relationship satisfaction predicted sensitivity in early postpartum months. Depressive symptoms were not significantly associated with the trajectory. Conclusions: Maternal age and relationship satisfaction were linked to changes in sensitivity, underscoring the role of relational and sociodemographic factors in early maternal adjustment.