Preventive interventions for paternal perinatal depression: a scoping review protocol

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Mental Health
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• Paternal perinatal depression is a significant mental health concern for fathers, impacting men, father-child relationships, and child development.
• Suicide is the most severe adverse outcome of paternal perinatal depression, highlighting the need for early prevention strategies.
• Existing literature on preventive interventions for paternal perinatal depression, particularly in Asian populations, is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review to map the existing literature on preventive interventions for paternal perinatal depression.
• To identify and describe interventions aimed at preventing depression in expectant and new fathers.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive search of multiple databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Cochrane, Ichushi-Web) and grey literature sources (Google Scholar, ProQuest) will be performed.
• Studies published within the last 10 years (from 2012) focusing on preventive interventions for perinatal depression in men will be included.
• Data extraction and screening will be conducted by two independent reviewers using a standardized tool, with results presented narratively and visually.

Main Results:

• This section will detail the findings of the scoping review, categorizing and summarizing the identified preventive interventions.
• The review will highlight gaps in the literature, especially concerning specific populations or intervention types.

Conclusions:

• The findings will provide a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of preventive interventions for paternal perinatal depression.
• This review will inform future research and clinical practice aimed at supporting paternal mental health during the perinatal period.
• Identifying effective prevention strategies is essential for improving outcomes for fathers, children, and families.