Can have lasting impacts on both the parent and the child.
Can create bonding issues between the parent and the child and can lead to sleeping as well as feeding problems for the child.
Long-term, children of a mother with peripartum depression are at a higher risk of cognitive and emotional deficits,

The Impacts of Untreated Postpartum Depression

reference for untreated peripartum depression

The case of Maria illustrates potential peripartum onset depression. After giving birth, she experiences persistent feelings of being overwhelmed, anxious, and panicked, along with frequent crying and a belief that she is an inadequate mother.

Example of Peripartum Onset Depression

Refers to depression that occurs during pregnancy and after childbirth.
Roughly 1 in 7 women experiences peripartum depression.

Google

Postpartum depression can occur directly after childbirth due to a combination of hormones that can induce depression. 1 in 5-8 women experience postpartum depression symptoms.

Postpartum Depression

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

- Evidence that prenatal exposure to SSRIs may affect the child's behavior later on in life (Oberlander et al., 2010)
- CBT is the best treatment option for postpartum depression

Treatments for Postpartum Depression

Reference for Stigma against Women with post-partum psychological disorders

The question was whether or not women with postpartum psychological disorders encounter stigma. 

Summary for Stigma against Women with post-partum psychological disorders.

What is Peripartum Depression (formerly Postpartum)? (n.d.). https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/peripartum-depression/what-is-peripartum-depression

peripartum depression reference

Peripartum Depression

Langan, R. C., & J. Goodbred, A. (2016, May 15). Identification and management of peripartum Depression. AAFP. https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2016/0515/p852.html

reference for identification and management of peripartum depression

Some examples of postpartum depression symptoms include, but are not limited to:
* An inability to regulate mood 
* Extreme fixation with the infant's health
* Feelings of worthlessness and guilt
* Abnormal appetite and eating habits
* Postpartum psychosis

Common Symptoms of Postpartum Depression

Reference for Etiology of Post-Partum Depression

The prevalence of PPD is considered to be 10-15%, however most studies on PPD have been conducted in WEIRD countries, so a study was conducted to see if non-WEIRD countries showcase a similar rate of PPD. There was found to be a wide range of PPD worldwide, with some countries reporting very few cases(Singapore, Malaysia, Denmark) and some reporting a high prevalence(Brazil, Chile, Taiwan). The range was 0=60% percent prevalence. So, it was concluded that the 10-15% prevalence rate may not be entirely representative of the true world-wide prevalence and needs to be examined further using more cross-culturally appropriate methods. 

Post-Partum Depression Prevalence Cross-Culturally

Reference for Post Partum Depression Prevalence Cross-Culturally

Reference for Mental Health of Pregnant Women in Prison

A study of pregnant inmates in an English prison found that official medical records underreported mental health disorders, with only three women documented as qualifying for treatment. In reality, most of the pregnant inmates struggled with severe depression. Improved screening and treatment are crucial in correctional facilities, as untreated depression can adversely affect both the mother and the fetus.

Mental Health and Treatment Needs of Pregnant Inmates

Potential underlying etiologies of postpartum depression (PPD) include hormonal changes, genetic predispositions, and environmental stressors. While the exact cause remains unknown, depressive episodes in susceptible individuals may be triggered by the rapid drop in estrogen and progesterone levels following childbirth, combined with the stress and sleep deprivation that accompanies newborn care. Other contributing factors include changes in metabolic pathways.

Etiology of Postpartum Depression

While pregnancy loss (miscarriage or stillbirth) does not increase postpartum depression (PPD) risk in individuals without a history of depression, those with a history of depression are twice as likely to experience recurrent PPD episodes compared to those who deliver a living child. Additionally, individuals who did not want to be pregnant can experience depressive episodes after a miscarriage. Premature birth of a living child increases the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but shows no statistical association with PPD.

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