Overview
Postpartum major depression (PPD) is a significant mood disorder that can affect women after childbirth. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been identified as a risk factor for the development of PPD.Diagnosis
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are a risk factor for PPD 1.
Subtypes of ACEs strongly related to PPD include emotional abuse, emotional neglect, and sexual abuse 1.
Other ACE subtypes with strong effects on PPD include family member incarceration, physical abuse, and physical neglect 1.Management
Early screening for ACEs may play an important role in the management of PPD 1.Key Recommendations
Screening for adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) is important for identifying individuals at risk for postpartum depression (PPD) 1. (Evidence: Moderate)
Recognize that emotional abuse, emotional neglect, sexual abuse, family member incarceration, physical abuse, and physical neglect are risk factors for PPD 1. (Evidence: Moderate)References
1 Fu C, Li C, Wan X, Yang Y, Zhang S, Hu J. The Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Postpartum Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Trauma, violence & abuse 2024. link