Unseen Afterbirth: Exploring the Consequences of Peripartum Depression

Peripartum depression (PPD), encompassing both antenatal and postnatal depression, is a serious mood disorder affecting nearly one in seven women globally. Despite its high prevalence, it often goes undiagnosed due to stigma and underreporting. The disorder has multidimensional consequences for both mother and child. This narrative review aims to synthesize current evidence on the consequences of PPD, particularly focusing on maternal psychological and physical health, mother–child bonding, and child health and developmental outcomes. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar for studies published from January 1990 to December 2024. Eligible studies included various designs that investigated the effects of PPD on maternal or child outcomes. The data were extracted and analysed thematically. PPD significantly impairs maternal mental health, contributing to chronic depression, suicidal ideation, low self-esteem, and impaired quality of life. It is associated with physical conditions such as fatigue, chronic illnesses, reduced breastfeeding, and sexual dysfunction. Importantly, it disrupts mother–infant bonding, with long-term repercussions on child cognitive, emotional, and motor development. Infants of depressed mothers are at higher risk for preterm birth, low birth weight, malnutrition, and developmental delays. However, evidence remains variable across different socio-economic contexts. PPD has far-reaching and intergenerational consequences that necessitate early detection and intervention. Timely support can improve maternal well-being, strengthen mother–child bonding, and foster healthier child development trajectories.