Risk of Postpartum Depression in Non-Breastfeeding Mothers

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common complication of childbirth that can cause difficulties for breastfeeding mothers. PPD is a mental health condition where a new mother has decreased moods, irritability, feeling of guilt, anhedonia, anxiety, disappointment, and other symptoms within the first year after giving birth. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is utilized to detect and assess PPD. Studies have shown that difficulty in breastfeeding is a potential risk factor for PPD. Breastfeeding plays a vital role in the overall health benefits for both mother and child. Identifying mothers who are high risk for PPD and lactation problems may provide patients with early treatment and education to avoid complications. The benefits and relationship between breastfeeding and PPD are presented