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Postpartum Suicidality beyond Depression: a Systematic Review of Risk Profiles and Prevention Gaps
Valentina Baldini1,2, Martina Gnazzo3, Giorgia Varallo2
1Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
Current Psychiatry Reports
|July 27, 2026
Summary
Postpartum suicidality is common and linked to factors beyond depression, including anxiety and trauma. Broader screening is needed to identify at-risk mothers for better prevention and intervention.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal mental health
- Public health
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Suicidal ideation and behavior in the postpartum period contribute significantly to maternal morbidity and mortality.
- Postpartum depression is a known risk factor, but suicidality can occur independently, leading to underrecognition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the prevalence of postpartum suicidal ideation and behavior.
- To identify associated risk factors beyond postpartum depression.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of major databases (PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, PsycINFO) up to March 2025.
- PRISMA guidelines followed for study selection.
- Inclusion of 20 studies with 352,726 postpartum women.
Main Results:
- Prevalence of suicidal ideation varied widely (2.2% to >50%) based on population and assessment.
- Key risk factors included postpartum depression, anxiety, trauma history, intimate partner violence, unplanned pregnancy, low socioeconomic status, low social support, and adverse childhood experiences.
- Suicidal ideation was reported even without clinical depression, highlighting a multifactorial etiology.
Conclusions:
- Postpartum suicidality is complex and not solely explained by depression.
- Expanded screening incorporating psychosocial and trauma factors is crucial.
- Trauma-informed, integrated approaches are recommended for early identification and prevention.
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