Risk factors associated with postpartum depression among adolescent mothers: A systematic review of observational studies.

Abstract

Background: Postpartum depression is a significant mental health concern among adolescents worldwide with negative consequences for affected mothers and their children (e.g., impaired mother- infant attachment and potential deficits in the children’s emotional, social, and cognitive development). However, little is known about the specific risk factors that contribute to its development. A thorough understanding of the risk factors associated with postpartum depression in this vulnerable population is vital for effective intervention and support. This systematic review aimed to identify risk factors associated with postpartum depression among adolescents and evaluate the quality of the evidence available.

Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in 2023 using EBSCO Medline, CINAHL, APA, PsycINFO and grey literature from Google Scholar. A search strategy was developed using the PEO (Population, Exposure, Outcomes) framework. The inclusion criteria included studies from different countries published between 2000 and 2023 and used a validated measure of postpartum depression with an onset within 12 months after childbirth and persistence beyond two weeks postpartum. The review examined adolescent mothers, who ranged in age from 13 to 19 years, and included risk factors that occurred before birth.

Results: The systematic review included a total of 6 studies that met the inclusion criteria. The results suggested several risk factors associated with the onset of adolescent mothers’ postpartum depression, including relationship challenges, prior history of depression, educational level, and social support. Relationship challenges (marital status, living with the family and partner, experiencing postnatal sexual problems, and having frequent arguments with the spouse) were the most prevalent risk factor for adolescent postpartum depression that was statistically significant across four studies.

Conclusion: This systematic review provided insightful information about the risk factors for adolescents’ postpartum depression. Further research should employ prospective longitudinal designs with precisely defined, timely, and standardised measurements of risk factors and postpartum depression to enhance our understanding of these risk factors over time. Such insights may enable healthcare professionals to create more effective support systems and preventive measures or adolescent mothers at risk, ultimately improving the mental health of both the mothers and their children.