Does maternal postpartum depression affect child health and development? A review

Abstract

Postpartum depression (PD) is a worldwide issue. Researchers believe the high risk of depression after childbirth persists for the first 6 months. The rate of PD varies from 13 to 20%. This psychiatric disorder has been shown to have a negative impact on the quality of life not only for mothers (difficulty breastfeeding, changing relationships with their husbands, including intimacy) but also for children, initiating immediate effects (infant colic, lack of weight gain, sleep disturbances) and long-term effects on the cognitive and emotional development of the child. Due to a woman's busy schedule, she does not always have the opportunity to visit a doctor. In addition, she may not be aware of her mental health disorders. Often the pediatrician observes that the woman, due to inappropriate behavior, not only fails to cope with maternal responsibilities but may also be a danger to her child. A practical and simple screening technique that allows early detection of PD is the Edinburgh PD Scale. Its use will help women to receive professional care.