Symptoms of Depression in the Postpartum Period: Targeting Maternal Mental Health in the Perinatal Period

Abstract

This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the relationship between postpartum depression symptoms, anxiety, and stress during the postpartum period. A total of 101 women were assessed using the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) within 14 days after delivery. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that paid work, tobacco use, and stress symptoms were significantly associated with a higher incidence of postpartum depression symptoms. These results underscore the importance of comprehensive prenatal care and effective postpartum follow-up to address maternal mental health and prevent adverse outcomes for both mothers and children.

Disclosure statement

The authors report there are no competing interests to declare.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq) under public notice No. 407546/2021-9 – Call CNPq/MCTI/FNDCT No. 18/2021 - Range A - Emerging Groups.