Depression during and after pregnancy, collectively termed perinatal depression, comprises depressive episodes occurring in pregnancy (antenatal depression) and in the weeks and months following childbirth (postpartum depression). It is among the most common complications of the perinatal period and is driven by the…
Depression during and after pregnancy, collectively termed perinatal depression, comprises depressive episodes occurring in pregnancy (antenatal depression) and in the weeks and months following childbirth (postpartum depression). It is among the most common complications of the perinatal period and is driven by the interaction of hormonal change, psychological adjustment, and social stressors, with potential consequences for maternal well-being, the mother-infant relationship, and child development. Risk is shaped by prior mood disorder, inadequate social support, adverse life circumstances, and cognitive and personality factors. Research relevant to this area examines the relationship between postpartum depression and beliefs about motherhood and perfectionism during pregnancy, the experiences of pregnant women navigating demanding environments, and preconception and antenatal care that may influence perinatal mental health. Related work addresses hematologic and obstetric conditions complicating pregnancy, the psychological impact of pregnancy loss and miscarriage, and the broader determinants of maternal health in diverse settings. Because perinatal depression is frequently underrecognized, screening and timely intervention are emphasized. The journal publishes peer-reviewed clinical and psychosocial studies addressing antenatal and postpartum depression, its risk factors and reproductive context, and approaches to the assessment and support of maternal mental health across pregnancy and the postpartum period.
12 peer-reviewed articles, ranked by relevance. Each links to its DOI.
The 12 articles above have been cited 45 times in the scholarly literature. Citation data via OpenAlex and Crossref, updated Jun 2026.
A sample of recent works citing this journal's research on Depression During and After Pregnancy, linking to each citing work.