New Mums from Urban Areas at an Increased Risk of Postpartum Depression

A new study has revealed that new mothers from urban areas are at an increased risk of postpartum depression. Researchers found some contributing factors such as a depressive history, extent of social support and place of birth which can increase the risk of postpartum depression.

Women’s College Research Institute scientist, Dr. Simone Vigod, said women in the urban areas received less social support as compared to women in rural set ups.

“What we hypothesized is what’s happening in smaller areas is there’s actually more support because there’s more access to family—it’s a much more family-oriented culture. Whereas in large populations, there are pockets of isolation…people are moving away from their families, working long hours, they have long commutes, and maybe their partners aren’t around as much.”

Women from semi-urban places also portrayed the highest rates of another risk factor: history of depression but had lower rates of postpartum depression compared with urban women.

“It actually suggests there’s something going on in these semi-urban areas to mitigate the risk. In this study, even though women in urban areas reported less history of depression, it’s almost like the lack of social support really drove the increased risk.”

It is important to improve supports and services for new mums so that we can reduce the risk of postpartum depression. Women in the throes of postpartum depression should to able to talk to their healthcare provider. Treatment and therapy can make a huge difference and improve the whole experience of motherhood.

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Source-Medindia