Editor’s Note: For simplicity and ease of reading, in this community, we use the term “mothers” to refer to pregnant people and those who have given birth. But we want to acknowledge that not all people who can get pregnant identify as women and that some people who give birth identify as men or nonbinary. We also recognize that parenthood exists in many forms, including adoptive and foster parenthood. Health Union strives to create an inclusive space while providing accurate health information.
The period after childbirth can be a challenging time for many people and their families. Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common and serious mental health condition that affects some parents after childbirth. The condition can affect people from all walks of life.1
However, certain groups may face unique challenges when dealing with PPD. These issues add to the already complex and overwhelming experience of parenthood.1
Black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC)
Differences in outcomes based on race (racial disparities) in healthcare have persisted for a long time. Research is unclear when it comes to which race or ethnicity is most impacted by PPD. But the US National Survey on Children’s Health estimates that American Indian/Alaska Native women have the highest rates of PPD.1
A 2021 study found that Black women experience PPD that requires hospital-based care at a higher rate than women of other ethnicities. The same study showed that Black women are also less likely to receive counseling and community mental health support than white and Latina women.2
These disparities may be due to a number of reasons, including cultural stigma, systemic inequalities, and limited access to mental health care.2
LGBTQ+ people
LGBTQ+ people may face unique challenges after giving birth. The following factors increase the risk of postpartum depression in LGBTQ+ folks:3
- Navigating societal norms
- Stigma
- Discrimination
- Personal mental health challenges
- Issues with their family of origin
- Conception or adoption complications
- Denial of parental rights
Trans and non-binary birthing parents may have particular challenges, including:4
- Gender dysphoria (distress or discomfort when one’s gender identity does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth)
- Isolation
- Societal biases
- Difficulty accessing affirming and inclusive healthcare
Rates of PPD are believed to be higher among transgender men. But more research is needed to understand how PPD affects this population.4
Parents who have had a loss of pregnancy or infant
Grief and trauma from losing a pregnancy is devastating. Parents who have suffered pregnancy or infant loss have an increased risk of postpartum depression. One-fourth to one-third of parents who have experienced pregnancy loss have at least some degree of poor mental health.5
Parents who have endured this kind of loss may have increased anxiety and grief during future pregnancies. This can make PPD more likely to occur as well.5
Birthing/surrogate parents
Parents who give birth but do not go on to raise the child, including surrogate mothers, may face physical and emotional challenges during the postpartum period.6,7
Adoptive/foster parents
People who become parents through adoption, foster care, or surrogacy can experience PPD, too. Rates of PPD in adoptive parents are similar to those in birthing parents (1 in 7 mothers, 1 in 10 fathers/partners). The transition into parenthood may lead to feelings of depression.6,7
Dads and partners
Postpartum depression is not exclusive to mothers. Partners face almost the same risk as birthing parents. Research shows that about 7 to 9 percent of dads and partners develop PPD.7
Dads and partners who struggle with PPD may be extra hard on themselves during this time. They may have doubts about their abilities as a parent. These doubts could prevent them from providing needed support for their partner.7
Military families
There are certain stressors unique to active-duty parents and military families that may increase PPD. Though research on this topic is limited, these stressors may include:8
- Previous deployment
- Experiencing combat during a previous deployment
- History of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from previous deployments
- Deployment of either parent during pregnancy or within 6 months after pregnancy
People serving in the US Army seem to develop PPD more often than people in other US military branches. The reason may be that Army members traditionally have more frequent and longer deployments than members of other branches. Army members also may experience more land combat than other branches, like the Navy.8
Domestic violence survivors
Domestic violence, also called intimate partner violence, is rampant all over the world. It affects 1 in 3 women in her lifetime. There is a direct link between domestic violence and postpartum depression. Domestic violence is more likely to be more severe during pregnancy and postpartum.9,10
In addition, domestic violence survivors who become parents may carry trauma into their parenting experience. This can increase their risk of PPD. Sadly, this violence is also linked to preterm birth, low birth weight, and miscarriage.9
Parents who have a baby with an illness or special needs
Parents of children with an illness or special needs often experience increased stress and anxiety. This can increase the likelihood that the parents will develop PPD.11
Personalized treatment and support
Postpartum depression can affect anyone, no matter their background or circumstances. Understanding how it impacts special populations is essential to getting the right support and treatment. Culturally sensitive postpartum care is crucial to everyone’s mental well-being.1,11
If you or someone you love is having symptoms of PPD, get help. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength. No one should ever feel alone in their journey through postpartum depression.1,11