Depression risk highest two weeks after birth, major study finds

Depression risk highest two weeks after birth, major study finds

04 May 2026

The global study, led by the University of Queensland, analysed data from more than two million women and girls aged 10–59 across 90 countries. It found that major depressive disorder (MDD) affects 6.2% during pregnancy and 6.8% in the year after birth, compared to 4.3% in the general population.

Rates were highest shortly after birth, rising to 8.3% in the first two weeks postpartum.

Researchers say these findings highlight the need to make depression screening, prevention and treatment a routine part of maternity care. Lead author Associate Professor Alize Ferrari said early screening should happen throughout pregnancy and after birth, including during visits with GPs, obstetricians and midwives.

Australia has seen strong improvements in screening rates. A 2020 study showed the number of women not screened dropped from 40.6% in 2000 to 1.7% in 2017. Over the same time, those screened both before and after birth increased from 21.3% to 79.3%.

However, some gaps remain. Between 2013 and 2017, older women and those already experiencing emotional distress were less likely to be screened both antenatally and postnatally.

Co-author Dr Paul Miller said access to care, cultural factors and health system differences all affect how well women are supported during and after pregnancy.

In the Australasia region, depression rates were slightly below the global average, at 5.7% during pregnancy and 6.1% after birth. Globally, the highest rates were seen in southern sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, while the lowest were in high-income Asia Pacific regions.

The study concludes that stronger and more consistent screening and support systems are needed to better protect maternal mental health.

 
https://www1.racgp.org.au/


Source: newsGP

 
 

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