Maternal depression symptoms during the first 21 months after giving birth

Aims: The first year after childbirth involves a major transition for women, which can accentuate inadequacies and feelings of powerlessness, making them vulnerable to depression. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and frequency of maternal postpartum depressive symptoms at different times after giving birth (0-21 months). Methods: Data were collected cross-sectionally using a web questionnaire containing the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). A total of 888 mothers with children in the age range 0-21 months responded. Results: The results showed different levels of depression over the range of months included in the study. The overall prevalence using EPDS > 12 was 27.8%. There were higher levels at 9-12 months and 17-21 months. The highest levels of symptoms of depression were found at nine, 12, and 17 months after birth, and the lowest levels at two and 16 months. Conclusions:Funding Agencies|Swedish Research CouncilSwedish Research CouncilEuropean Commission [2016-03550]