Table 2 Questionnaires of the ARIES birth cohort

Perceived Stress Scale (PSS14)

This scale is a self-report instrument that evaluates the level of stress perceived during the last month. It has 14 items, the responses have a five-point scale (0 = never, 1 = almost never, 2 = occasionally when, 3 = often, 4 = very often). The score obtained indicates that a higher score corresponds to a higher level of perceived stress.

Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)

This scale consists of ten short statements. The mother chooses which of the four possible answers is the one that most closely resembles the way she felt during the previous week. The answers have a score of 0, 1, 2 and 3. The total score is calculated by adding the scores for each of the 10 items.

During the pregnancy, a score of 13 or more points indicates suspicion of depression. In postpartum, a score of 10 or more points indicates suspicion of postpartum depression. If the statement “I had the idea of hurting myself” is not answered as ‘never’, the patient requires additional mental health evaluation within 24 h.

Allergy and asthma surveys

Detailed description of allergy history and symptoms, physician diagnosis, and medical treatment, to determine diagnosis of atopic dermatitis, food allergy, asthma, and allergic rhinitis

Environment and habits

Detailed survey regarding type of residence and housing, pollution, heating, home cleaning habits, and pets. Habits survey asks about drug use, alcohol consumption, tobacco smoking habits, physical activity, time spent outdoors and using TV and/or other screens.

Food frequency questionnaire

Record consumption of vegetables, legumes, types of cereals, low fat meats, high fat meats, dairy, and olive oil.