Reacción a "One in 15 women suffers from major depression in the year following childbirth, according to a global review"

This is a systematic review of the global prevalence of depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period. This is a very important topic, as the high incidence of depression during this period contrasts with social conventions that associate pregnancy and childbirth with a time in life when it is natural to be happy and mentally well. However, as the study confirms through a rigorous review of the scientific literature, the prevalence of depression is higher during this period than in the general population and is particularly high in the postpartum period. The study excludes transient states of sadness or emotional lability commonly seen in the days immediately following childbirth and focuses on major depression, which is more severe and long-lasting.

In Spain, there are few specialized services and programs dedicated to women’s mental health care during this crucial period of life. In most cases, women with postpartum depression do not receive comprehensive care through centers that allow for the treatment of depression without neglecting the needs of the newborn and the bonding process, which is essential for a healthy emotional relationship between mother and baby and their subsequent development. This study indicates that we must promote mental health care during pregnancy and the postpartum period and develop specialized programs and centers.