How does postpartum depression affect fetal development?

Sometimes, pregnant women don't realize they are depressed. They may think they have symptoms of pregnancy or the “baby blues,” which many women experience right after birth. It's also important to know that as many as 10% of fathers experience postpartum depression after the birth of a child. read more

Research suggests that the effect of postpartum depression on child development to be related to the relationship of the mother and infant. In some studies of young children whose mothers had postpartum depression, it has been suggested that the children have increased cognitive, behavioral, and interpersonal problems than mothers who did not have postpartum depression. read more

Depression during pregnancy can also lead to: miscarriage, delivering before the due date (preterm), giving birth to a small baby (low birth weight). If depression during pregnancy isn’t treated, it can lead to postpartum depression. Postpartum depression is a serious condition that can last for months after giving birth. It can affect your health and how well you bond with your baby. read more

While it is fairly obvious that postpartum depression can hinder a mother’s ability to take care of her newborn, a new study looks at how the disorder can affect infant development. read more