Social factors linked to postpartum depression: A mixed-methods longitudinal study

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Abstract
Background: There is a large body of research on the mental well-being of childbearing women focusing on the prevalence rates of antenatal and postpartum depression, and associated risk factors. However, there is a paucity of research on postpartum depression in its social context and in relation to the lived experience of the mother. Aims: To investigate the association between social factors, the organization of maternity care services, and the prevalence of depression among a purposive sample of new mothers at 3 – 4 weeks and 4 – 6 months post-partum. Method: Longitudinal, mixed-methods research design. Results: Our quantitative analyses demonstrate that income and postpartum depression were linked and there was also an association between satisfaction with the birth experience and depression at 3 – 4 weeks postpartum. Thematic analysis of the qualitative interview data revealed two main sources of dissatisfaction: disruption of birth plans and inadequate support from maternity providers. Discussion & limitations: We discuss some of the benefits and limitations of our mixed-methods longitudinal study and directions for further research. Declaration of interests: None.