A meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Psychiatry in 2018 pooled 291 studies from 56 countries with almost 300,000 women. The global prevalence of postpartum depression was about 17.7%, roughly one mother in six. Differences between countries were large: from 3% in Singapore to 38% in Chile.
What the differences between countries show
Higher prevalence was linked to greater income inequality, higher maternal and infant mortality, and a higher share of women working 40 or more hours a week. These are associations, not proven causes, but they show that the environment and support for mothers matter a great deal.
What this means for you
- Sadness, anxiety or emptiness after giving birth is not your fault.
- If symptoms last longer than two weeks, talk to your doctor or midwife.
- Loved ones can help: sleep, rest and practical support are very important.
Sources
- Hahn-Holbrook J., Cornwell-Hinrichs T., Anaya I. (2018). Economic and health predictors of national postpartum depression prevalence: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression of 291 studies from 56 countries. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 8. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00248