Risk of Postpartum Depression in Relation to Fatigue

Abstract

Postpartum depression (PPD) is one of the most common complications after childbirth that can adversely affect mental functioning, infant care, and family well-being. PPD is defined as depressive episodes that occur within one year after giving birth and can cause a barrier for childcare. This evidence-based practice paper evaluated current literature addressing whether sleep duration in the first 12 weeks postpartum influences the risk of postpartum depression among postpartum women, aged 15-35. Specifically, the evidence evaluated women who achieved a sleep duration of seven or more hours of sleep per night and decreased levels of fatigue, as measured by self-reported sleep diaries, during the first 12 weeks postpartum. Postpartum depression was identified using Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, with a score of 13 or more in the first six months, suggesting a depressive illness. Sleep deprivation is common during the postpartum period and has been identified as a risk factor for PPD. A review of existing evidence was conducted to assess the relationship between sleep deprivation and postpartum depression in order to identify changes for the nursing practice. Findings suggest that inadequate sleep of less than seven hours increases the risk of a postpartum mother developing PPD. Incorporating routine sleep assessments and sleep-promoting interventions into postpartum care in both inpatient and outpatient environments may support maternal mental health and improve postpartum outcomes.