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Perinatal Depression Among U.S. Active Duty Service Women.
Kimberly Dodd1, Anwar E Ahmed1,2, Catherine T Witkop1,2,3
1School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, United States.
Military Medicine
|June 1, 2026
Summary
Perinatal depression affects over half of active duty service women, with factors like young age and short maternity leave increasing risk. Improving access to care and extending leave can lower prevalence and support military families.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Mental Health
- Military Medicine
Background:
- Perinatal depression (PND) significantly impacts mothers, infants, and families.
- Active duty service women (ADSW) experience unique stressors increasing PND risk.
- Understanding PND prevalence and factors in ADSW is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of perinatal depression (PND) among active duty service women (ADSW).
- To identify factors associated with PND in this population.
- To inform interventions and policy reforms for improved maternal and infant health and military readiness.
Main Methods:
- Secondary analysis of the 2020 Women's Reproductive Health Survey (WRHS).
- Included 1,614 active duty service women (ADSW) with a recent live birth.
- Weighted log-binomial models used to estimate prevalence ratios.
Main Results:
- 57.4% of ADSW reported perinatal depression (PND).
- Higher PND prevalence linked to young age, low education, non-white race, unintended pregnancy, short maternity leave, and military branch.
- Easier access to care and longer maternity leave correlated with lower PND.
Conclusions:
- Perinatal depression (PND) remains high in active duty service women (ADSW) despite healthcare coverage.
- Key factors identified can advocate for enhanced screening and policy changes.
- Recommendations include extended maternity leave and improved access to specialty care to support maternal-infant health and force readiness.
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