Trends in postpartum depression and anxiety diagnoses among U.S. active component service women, 2010-2024

This retrospective cohort study evaluated trends in postpartum depression (PPD) and postpartum anxiety (PPA) diagnoses among 138,588 active component service women with live births (2010-2024). Period prevalence of PPD/PPA remained relatively constant from 2010 to 2017 (2.4%) and began increasing in 2018, with a peak in 2022 (13.4%). Multivariable logistic regression (2021-2024) demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in adjusted odds of PPD/PPA diagnosis in 2023-2024 (adjusted odds ratio 0.89), following the pandemic peak. The most significant risk factors for PPD/PPA diagnosis were prior mental health history, service in the Navy, and cesarean delivery. The 15-year increase in diagnostic prevalence may reflect improved administrative documentation and reduced stigma associated with seeking care. Conversely, the post-2022 decline may reflect post-pandemic stabilization and mitigating effects of expanded parental leave. Current PPD/PPA prevalence remains higher than pre-pandemic proportions, however. Prior mental health diagnosis remains the critical predictor, identifying a key population requiring targeted support to enhance military readiness. Period prevalence of PPD/PPA peaked in 2022 before declining in 2023 and 2024, while remaining higher than pre-pandemic levels. Service in the Navy, prior mood disorders, and cesarean delivery correlated with increased diagnostic odds, while Air Force and Space Force service, as well as officer status, were associated with reduced odds compared to Army and enlisted personnel.