Breast-Feeding and Postpartum Depression: Is There a Relationship?

Abstract

In an outpatient sample of depressed postpartum women, the onset of depression preceded the cessation of breast-feeding. The severity of the illness did not appear to influence breast-feeding persistence significantly.

Risk Factors of Postnatal Depression Among Immigrants in Norway

“…This is in contrast to the study by Alder where mothers exclusively breastfed their babies for at least 12 weeks, or who were taking contraceptives, had a higher incidence of postnatal depression than those who were not 'on the pill' or who partially breastfed (Alder EM 1983). Postnatal depression has been shown to have a significant negative impact on breastfeeding duration in other studies (Misri S 1997).…”

Maternal distress and intended breastfeeding duration

“…Stress during labor and delivery have been associated with delayed onset of lactation among urban Guatemalan women [33]. An outpatient sample of 51 Canadian depressed postpartum women who had stopped breastfeeding reported that their depression preceded the cessation of breastfeeding [34]. A study by Galler et al in Barbados [35] confirmed these data showing that depressive symptoms at seven weeks postpartum predicted a reduced preference for breastfeeding at current and later infant ages.…”

A longitudinal study of postpartum depressive symptoms: multilevel growth curve analyses of emotion regulation strategies, breastfeeding self-efficacy, and social support

“…A similar study in the USA found that depressive symptoms during pregnancy predicted who would cease to breastfeed within the first month (Pippins et al 2006). In their study, Misri et al (1997) explored the relation between PPD and the termination of breastfeeding. The majority (83 %) of mothers developed depressive symptoms before they ceased to breastfeed.…”