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Association between breastfeeding and postpartum depression: A meta-analysis
Mengjie Xia1, Jing Luo2, Junqiang Wang3
1Taizhou University, Zhejiang, China.
Journal of Affective Disorders
|April 23, 2022
Summary
Breastfeeding (BF) is associated with a reduced risk of postpartum depression (PPD). Longer durations and exclusive breastfeeding show greater risk reduction, though more research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Mental Health
- Public Health
Background:
- The relationship between breastfeeding (BF) and postpartum depression (PPD) is debated.
- Current guidelines lack clarity on BF's role in PPD management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between breastfeeding and postpartum depression.
- To quantify the risk reduction of PPD associated with different breastfeeding patterns.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE up to December 2021.
- Meta-analysis of 8 studies involving 18,570 participants was performed using a random-effects model.
- Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.
Main Results:
- Breastfeeding was associated with a 14% lower risk of PPD (OR 0.86).
- Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) showed a significant risk reduction compared to never breastfeeding (NBF) (OR 0.47).
- Longer BF duration (>1 month) was linked to a 37% lower PPD risk (OR 0.63).
Conclusions:
- A significant association exists between breastfeeding and a reduced risk of postpartum depression.
- Further large-scale studies are recommended to solidify these findings.
- Breastfeeding, particularly exclusive and longer-duration, appears protective against PPD.
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