Postpartum depression and quality of life in the first year after childbirth: ethnic differences

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a complex condition that can have negative outcomes for mothers, children, and their families and may affect mothers' quality of life (QoL(. This study examined the impact of PPD symptoms (PPDs) on QoL among mothers in the first year postpartum, with a particular focus on vulnerable populations, specifically Arab women, and comparing them with Jewish mothers in Israel.

For this cross-sectional study, we recruited 601 mothers (478 Jewish, 123 Arab), up to 12 months postpartum. The questionnaire battery included the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the WHOQoL-BREF Assessment (QoL). Elevated PPD symptoms were defined as EPDS ≥ 13. Statistical analysis included bivariate associations and multiple linear regression to identify factors associated with QoL, adjusted for sociodemographic and obstetric variables.

The prevalence of PPDs in this sample was 23.8%, with 21% among Jewish and 33% among Arab mothers. PPDs were significantly associated with QoL, with higher EPDS scores correlating with lower QoL scores. Ethnicity also showed a significant association with QoL, with Arab mothers reporting lower QoL. Additionally, low income, unemployed mothers, and those experiencing obstetric complications reported significantly lower QoL.

These findings highlight the importance of early screening, diagnosis, and treatment of PPD to improve postpartum QoL. The observed disparities underscore the need for culturally tailored interventions to address ethnic differences. Future research should develop targeted strategies addressing psychological and socioeconomic factors in vulnerable populations effected by PPD.