Postpartum Depression Study Shows First-Time Moms At High Risk for PPD

Postpartum Depression Study Shows First-Time Moms At High Risk for PPD–A new study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders shows us the stats on moms suffering from PPD… and what factors increase your risk of experiencing it! Learn about what puts you at risk for PPD here on Newsymom!

This informational campaign comes to you in partnership with the Stark County Community Action Agency.

A recent study took data from over one million mamas from 138 countries via surveys from the Flo app to conduct research on the effects of risk factors on postpartum depression. The study’s purpose was to monitor the effect of these factors on whether mom was experiencing PPD:

  • Mom’s age
  • Parity (number of kids mom has)
  • Gestational number (having one or two babies)
  • Newborn’s gender
  • Self-reported postpartum depressive symptoms (PDS)
The Study’s Findings

According to the study, these are the factors that increase or decrease your chances of having postpartum depression:

The sex of the baby didn’t seem to have a significant difference on PPD symptoms. Per the study, “While more mothers of boys (9.4%) reported depressive symptoms than mothers of girls (9.1%), the difference is of questionable clinical significance.”

Maternal Age Factor
You can see in this chart that moms in the 18-24 age bracket have much higher risk for PPD symptoms than advanced age moms (25-39 years old).
Twin Factor
Mo’ babies, mo’ PPD problems! Twin births increased moms of all age groups, with the highest risk being for moms age 40+.
Parity Factor
Moms with previous kids experienced less PPD symptoms, probably due to the “been there, done that” factor.
PPD vs. Baby Blues

How do you know if you’re suffering from the “baby blues” or postpartum depression? Check out the key differences here:

PPD Resources

If you suspect that you or someone you know has postpartum depression, check out these resources:

  • Call the Postpartum Support International hotline at 1-800-944-4773 (Press ‘1’ En Espanol, ‘2’ for English)
  • Take the Edinburgh Test Quiz* to see your risk for PPD
  • Find someone to talk to near you using the PSI Directory
  • Download the SheMatters app. SheMatters was founded for mental health improvement for black mothers through culturally relevant resources and culturally competent therapists!

*The Edinburgh Test is used by OB/GYNs and pediatricians to determine if mom is suffering from postpartum anxiety or depression. The scale is limited and isn’t culturally competent. The test may not take into consideration attitudes, values, and beliefs associated with your culture. 

If this motherhood thing is getting a little overwhelming, the SCCAA Community Actions Pathway HUB is the place to go! They provide help to pregnant or new mamas looking for help for some of these motherhood challenges:

  • Rides to your doctor appointment
  • Needing baby items like cribs or diapers
  • Assistance with your other children
  • And so much more!

For more information, contact the Community Action Pathways HUB at (330) 454-1676 x. 153. 

Melissa Klatt

Reporting

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