Exploring the relationship between food insecurity and postpartum depression: A scoping review

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Maternal Health
• Mental Health

Background:

• Postpartum depression (PPD) affects many birthing people globally, with increasing rates in the U.S.
• Food insecurity, a social determinant of health, is linked to adverse maternal and child outcomes.
• Existing research on food insecurity and PPD is fragmented, lacking standardized approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review of the relationship between food insecurity and PPD.
• To synthesize evidence for informing research, clinical practice, and policy.
• To identify gaps in the literature and methodological limitations.

Main Methods:

• Systematic search of major databases (PubMed, CINAHL, PsychINFO, Scopus, GreenFILE).
• Inclusion of peer-reviewed, English-language primary studies.
• Guided by Arksey and O'Malley framework and PRISMA-ScR checklist.

Main Results:

• Twenty studies met inclusion criteria; 19 showed an association between food insecurity and PPD.
• Most studies used symptom-based screening, not diagnostic criteria, limiting comparability.
• Consistent association found, but directionality and physical access to food remain unclear.

Conclusions:

• A robust association exists between food insecurity and PPD across diverse populations.
• Methodological limitations necessitate standardized PPD measures and exploration of causal pathways.
• Integrating food insecurity screening and addressing access barriers can mitigate PPD risk.