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The birth experience and women's postnatal depression: A systematic review
Aleeca F Bell1, Ewa Andersson2
1University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Nursing, Department of Women, Children and Family Health Science, 845 S. Damen Ave. M/C 802, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
Midwifery
|June 21, 2016
Summary
A negative birth experience is linked to maternal postnatal depression, impacting child development. Positive birth experiences, supported by healthcare providers, may reduce this risk.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Maternal Mental Health
- Child Development
Background:
- Maternal postnatal depression significantly risks impaired child development.
- The link between women's birth experience and postnatal depression is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review studies on the association between birth experience and postnatal depression.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search using the Matrix Method (Garrard, 2014) and PRISMA guidelines.
- Searched studies published between 2000-2015, in English.
- 1536 abstracts were reviewed, leading to 112 full-text articles.
Main Results:
- Eleven of 15 studies found a significant association between birth experience and postnatal depression.
- Identified heterogeneity in birth experience assessment tools.
- Discussed evidence strength and potential biases.
Conclusions:
- A negative birth experience may contribute to postnatal depression, despite methodological limitations.
- Further research is needed to confirm this association.
- Promoting positive birth experiences through supportive healthcare is recommended to reduce postnatal depression risk.
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