Perinatal Mental Health Considerations

The American Psychiatric Association defines postpartum depression (PPD) as “emotionally and physically debilitating,” as the diagnosis occurs during a particularly vulnerable phase in a woman’s life.¹ Perinatal mental health disorders—including PPD, anxiety, depression, and psychosis—have shown a higher prevalence during the postpartum period. Studies show that 19.8% of women developed postnatal mental health conditions, compared to 15.6% of women who had the same disorders before pregnancy.²

The prevalence of perinatal anxiety during and after pregnancy ranges between 8.5% and 10%,³ with the prevalence in the postpartum period ranging from 6.1% to 27.9%.⁴ Symptoms vary from mild to severe and can often present as other conditions.⁵ Some factors that put mothers at risk for developing perinatal anxiety or depression include lower economic status, history of mental illness, history of domestic violence, and perinatal smoking or drinking.⁶

Partner Support

Partner support, especially during the perinatal period, is considered the most critical source of support for a mother. A mother’s relationship with her partner plays a crucial role in the prevention and treatment of mental health concerns during the perinatal period.⁷ Intimacy stemming from a balanced relationship may help minimize active mental health symptoms, promoting positive physical and psychological health.⁸

Modern Fatherhood

Contemporary population research findings have revealed a significant shift in the concept of fatherhood among recent generations. In one study, 78% of men agreed they were more actively involved with their children than their fathers. The same study also reported that 58% of fathers desired to be more involved in their child’s life.⁹ This evolution in fatherhood necessitates a corresponding evolution in the support and resources available to fathers.

Unfortunately, recent research has exposed a significant resource gap for expectant fathers.⁹ One study found that some men had trouble fulfilling their roles as both fathers and providers, particularly regarding the responsibilities associated with modern fatherhood. Additionally, many men described having limited ways to seek help and that, frequently, their partner was unavailable as a source of support.⁹ This lack of resources for fathers is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed.

Conclusion

In summary, perinatal mental health conditions are prevalent during the postpartum period, highlighting the essential role that fathers have in providing support to new mothers.⁷ A solid partnership during the postpartum period can be valuable to new mothers, promoting healthier outcomes for both mothers and their infants. However, as modern notions of fatherhood evolve, many fathers encounter obstacles in accessing necessary resources and support.⁹ It is essential to advance strategies and programs that empower fathers to engage actively and knowledgeably in their partners' well-being, ultimately creating a more supportive environment for families during this pivotal stage.

References:

1. What is perinatal depression? American Psychiatric Association. October 2023. Accessed October 18, 2024. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/Peripartum-Depression/What-is-Peripartum-Depression
2. Fisher J, Cabral de Mello M, Patel V, et al. Prevalence and determinants of common perinatal mental disorders in women in low- and lower-middle-income countries: a systematic review. Bull World Health Organ. 2012;90(2):139G-149G. doi:10.2471/BLT.11.091850
3. Misri S, Abizadeh J, Sanders S, Swift E. Perinatal generalized anxiety disorder: assessment and treatment. J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2015;24(9):762-770. doi:10.1089/jwh.2014.5150
4. Ali E. Women's experiences with postpartum anxiety disorders: a narrative literature review. Int J Womens Health. 2018;10:237-249. doi:10.2147/IJWH.S158621
5. Wardrop AA, Popadiuk, NE. Women's experiences with postpartum anxiety: expectations, relationships, and sociocultural influences. Qualitative Report. 2013;18(3):1-24. https://doi.org/10.46743/2160-3715/2013.1564
6. Yang K, Wu J, Chen X. Risk factors of perinatal depression in women: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Psychiatry. 2022;22(1):63. doi:10.1186/s12888-021-03684-3. PMID: 35086502; PMCID: PMC8793194.
7. Cheng ER, Rifas-Shiman SL, Perkins ME, et al. The influence of antenatal partner support on pregnancy outcomes. J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2016;25(7):672-679. doi:10.1089/jwh.2015.5462
8. Edwards RC, Thullen MJ, Isarowong N, Shiu CS, Henson L, Hans SL. Supportive relationships and the trajectory of depressive symptoms among young, African American mothers. J Fam Psychol. 2012;26(4):585-594. doi:10.1037/a0029053
9. Ghaleiha A, Barber C, Tamatea AJ, Bird A. Fathers' help seeking behavior and attitudes during their transition to parenthood. Infant Ment Health J. 2022;43(5):756-768. doi:10.1002/imhj.22008