Work

Physical intimate partner violence during pregnancy and maternal social context in relation to postpartum depressive symptoms in the United States

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious public health issue that impacts both the development of the child and the well-being of the mother. Many demographic and psychosocial risk factors for PPD have been found, but little is known about the effects of intimate partner violence (IPV) in a broad context. Objectives This study examines the relationship between intimate partner violence (IPV) and postpartum depression (PPD), while accounting for potential confounding factors from the mother’s social context, including socioeconomic resources, stressors, and demographic characteristics. To distinguish the distinct impact of IPV on PPD and account for possible spuriousness and to give a more precise estimate of the relationship between IPV and maternal mental health, these variables are included as controls. Methods Weighted logistic regression models were used to estimate the impact of IPV on PPD using nationally representative data from the PRAMS 2016–2022 dataset (N = 116,826). Three models were examined: a bivariate model that included only IPV, a covariate-adjusted model that included demographic controls, stressors, and resource variables, and a full model that included both IPV and all control variables. All variables were categorical, and proportions were weighted to produce population-level estimates. Results IPV was substantially linked to higher odds of PPD, in both the unadjusted (OR = 5.08, p < 0.001) and adjusted (OR = 2.17, p < 0.001) models. Significant associations were also found between higher PPD risk and important control variables, including lower income, unmarried status, previous diagnoses of anxiety and depression, and parity of three to five children. On the other hand, higher income, Hispanic ethnicity, and older maternal age were protective factors. Conclusion IPV is a highly reliable independent predictor of postpartum depression after controlling for maternal resources, stressors, and demographics. The results highlighted the necessity of integrated perinatal mental health interventions and IPV screening, particularly for socioeconomically vulnerable groups.

Source: Discover Public Health

DOI: 10.1186/s12982-026-03150-z

Author: Olaniyi Oluwasanmi

Institution: Florida State University

Language: English

Topic: Maternal Mental Health During Pregnancy and Postpartum

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Gender equality, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention