[Postpartum Depression in Fathers and Associated Risk Factors: A Systematic Review]

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Mental Health
• Sociology

Background:

• The postpartum period significantly impacts the mental well-being of both mothers and fathers.
• Paternal postpartum depression is an under-researched area with significant implications for family health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review existing literature on postpartum depression in fathers.
• To identify factors associated with paternal postpartum depression.
• To raise awareness regarding this critical mental health issue.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across major databases (PubMed, Science Direct, EBSCOhost, etc.) between April-May 2019.
• Included qualitative and quantitative research published between 2009-2019.
• A total of 18 articles were analyzed, with the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale being the most common diagnostic tool.

Main Results:

• The majority of included studies (n=17) were quantitative.
• Key factors influencing paternal postpartum depression identified include unemployment, age, economic status, and social support.
• Geographical distribution of studies showed a concentration in Europe (61.1%).

Conclusions:

• Factors such as housing status, economic situation, and unemployment significantly affect fathers' postpartum mental health.
• Maternal factors like age, education, and relationship quality also indirectly influence paternal depression.
• There is a critical need for more research on paternal postpartum depression, particularly in countries like Turkey, given the limited existing studies.