Research Recommendations on the Effects of Postpartum Depression and Pain on Infant Care and Development

Postpartum depression is one of the most common complications of childbirth, and another is pain. A growing body of research shows that the severity and duration of postpartum pain can increase a woman’s risk for postpartum depression. Postpartum depression and pain negatively affect maternal well-being, and postpartum depression has been associated with adverse outcomes in children. However, there is a dearth of information about the effects of postpartum depression and pain on infant care and development. The objectives of this commentary were to highlight the need to address this gap in the literature, offer a preliminary conceptual model to advance the field, and ignite new lines of inquiry to inform infant care and development.