A systematic review on postpartum depression in mothers

Abstract

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant maternal mental health problem that can occur following childbirth and may adversely affect mothers, infants, and families. It is more than the transient emotional changes associated with postpartum blues and may remain unrecognized or untreated, particularly in developing settings. Evidence reviewed in the present article indicates that postpartum depression is associated with psychological and physiological risk factors and may have short- and long-term consequences for child development and mother–child interactions. Objective: The present systematic review was undertaken to review the available evidence regarding postpartum depression among mothers, including its prevalence, associated risk factors, consequences, and the importance of early identification and management. Methods: A systematic review was conducted using studies identified from PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Studies published in English between 2010 and 2024 and reporting postpartum depression among mothers, including postpartum physical and mental changes, were considered. The review process involved identification of records, removal of duplicates, screening of titles and abstracts, and application of inclusion and exclusion criteria. The article reports 220 initially identified records and 20 original research articles included for metaanalysis. Results: The reviewed evidence demonstrates that postpartum depression is common among mothers and that prevalence varies across populations, geographical regions, screening methods, and postpartum periods. A meta-analysis among Indian mothers reported a pooled prevalence of 22% (95% CI: 19–25%), while another systematic review among healthy mothers reported an overall prevalence of 17% (95% CI: 0.15–0.20). The reviewed studies identified multiple psychological and physiological risk factors. Higher rates were also reported among mothers of premature or low-birthweight infants. Postpartum depression was found to be underdiagnosed and undertreated and was associated with adverse effects on maternal well-being, bonding, breastfeeding, and the child’s physical, cognitive, emotional, social, and behavioural development. Evidence regarding preventive interventions suggests that screening and appropriate interventions can contribute to reducing depressive symptoms. Conclusion: Postpartum depression represents an important maternal and child health concern requiring early recognition, appropriate assessment, and timely management. Routine screening and increased awareness among healthcare professionals can facilitate early identification. Nurses, midwives, obstetricians, paediatricians, and other healthcare providers have an important role in counselling, education, support, prevention, referral, and treatment. Early detection and appropriate intervention may improve maternal well-being and reduce the potential adverse effects on mothers and their children.