Adolescent mothers and postpartum depression: a possible connection? A Scoping review

Abstract

: Motherhood during adolescence is a sensitive phenomenon that draws attention to the mental health of adolescent mothers, including the risk of postpartum depression (PDR). This systematic review explores the correlation between motherhood and the development of PLD in adolescent mothers, analysing the associated risk factors. The included studies investigated the prevalence and risk factors of PPD in adolescent population samples, revealing a significant incidence of depressive disorders among adolescent mothers compared to adult mothers. Among the risk factors identified were low socioeconomic status, limited education and negative family dynamics. These findings highlight the importance of considering teenage pregnancy as a significant risk factor for PLD. Social support and targeted interventions can play a key role in preventing and managing postpartum depression in teenage mothers. Early identification of symptoms related to the mother's mental health during pregnancy and the postpartum period is of paramount importance to ensure the well-being of both mother and child. It is crucial to conduct further research to deepen the understanding of this complex relationship and to develop effective intervention strategies to support young mothers' mental health during the postpartum period. Investing in training health workers to recognise and treat pregnancy- and postpartum-related mental disorders, as well as educating women about available resources and the importance of seeking help when needed, can help reduce the public health burden of these problems.