[Support methods and effectiveness to reduce maternal depression and anxiety in Japan: A literature review]

Objectives　In Japan, support services are provided to help postpartum women within one year after childbirth. This study conducted a literature review of these support methods and their effectiveness in reducing depression and anxiety among postpartum women.Methods　We searched for Japanese and English literature published until August 2023 using the PubMed, Igaku Chuo Zasshi, CiNii Research, and Cochrane Library databases. We included original papers that provided support for postpartum women discharged from delivery facilities within one year of childbirth in Japan and assessed changes in depression and anxiety. The included studies were organized according to study design, number of participants, intervention period, support methods, assessment time, and main outcomes. The support methods and their effectiveness in reducing depression and anxiety were examined.Results　This review included 22 studies from PubMed, Igaku Chuo Zasshi, CiNii Research, and Cochrane Library. Regarding support provided after childbirth, the following methods reduced depression and anxiety; support from the childbirth hospital, care services after childbirth, exercise support, and physical contact between the mother and child. For continuous support during pregnancy, the following methods reduced depression and anxiety; continuous support from certain midwives and comprehensive support based on the assessment of the health status and need for support of postpartum women. Concerning other support, the following methods reduced depression and anxiety; health checkups for two weeks after childbirth, coaching based on the assessment of the current status of child-rearing, consultation services using an application, parenting support, and support for Chinese residents in Japan, while focusing on cultural differences and social support. Eight of these support programs were provided through collaborations between various healthcare professionals, such as physicians and nurses.Conclusion　This literature review found that some support methods reduced depression and anxiety among postpartum women. Planning based on the assessment of the mother's health condition and needs and multidisciplinary cooperation enhanced the effectiveness of support services for postpartum women.