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Depressive symptoms in men immediately after birth
Fatemeh Abdollahi1, Munn-Sann Lye2, Jamshid Yazdani Cherati3
1Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; Health Science Research Center, Addiction Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
Journal of Psychosomatic Research
|November 5, 2021
Summary
Paternal postpartum depression (PPD) affects 15.7% of fathers. Risk factors include older paternal age, maternal depression, and life events. Support services are recommended for new fathers.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Mental Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Depression is a leading global cause of morbidity.
- Postpartum depression (PPD) affects both mothers and fathers.
- Understanding paternal PPD is crucial for family well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of paternal postpartum depressive symptoms.
- To identify associated risk factors for paternal PPD.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study of 591 couples within 2-8 weeks postpartum.
- Screening for depressive symptoms using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS).
- Data collection on socio-demographics, life events, stress, social support, and general health (GHQ-12), analyzed by multiple logistic regression.
Main Results:
- 15.7% of fathers reported depressive symptoms (EPDS score > 12).
- Paternal PPD was associated with older paternal age, maternal depressive symptoms, higher perceived stress (GHQ-12 scores), and increased recent life events.
- A higher number of children was inversely associated with paternal PPD.
Conclusions:
- Paternal depressive symptoms post-childbirth are prevalent, particularly in first-time fathers.
- Healthcare services, parental education, and screening programs are recommended.
- Psychiatric and psychosocial interventions can alleviate depression in both parents.
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