Postpartum depression among immigrant women

Although there has been an increase in research on postpartum depression (PPD), an inadequate focus has been placed on immigrant women. This is a significant limitation given the rapidly changing demographics in North America.

Immigrants face unique and multiple layers of challenges that may compromise their mental health and prevent them from receiving adequate and equitable care. For immigrant women, many of these stressors are especially compounded in the vulnerable postpartum period, resulting in PPD. Cultural values and practices may be protective in some instances, whereas in other instances they exacerbate PPD. There is a significant gap in existing literature regarding the complex psychosocial, cultural, and spiritual factors that may moderate the effects of the depression. Furthermore, the measurement of PPD is hampered by cross-cultural methodological challenges.

Given the complexity of the psychosocial issues facing immigrant women, there is a need to develop a comprehensive response toward addressing the multifaceted challenges, ensuring equitable immigration and related policies; adequate community resources and social services to address social determinants of health; inclusiveness in public health and prevention strategies; equitable access to a culturally competent healthcare system; capacity building of marginalized communities; and culturally competent interventions at the individual level. Additional research using the bidimensional model of acculturation is needed.