Iranian Journal of Neonatology

Iranian Journal of Neonatology

The Relationship between Postpartum Depression in Parents and Infant Growth, Development, and Exclusive Breastfeeding: A Cohort Study in Tehran, Iran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Fatereh Momeni Javid 1
Nasrin Abedinia 2
Maedeh Raznahan 1
Mamak Shariat 3
1 Maternal, Fetal and Neonatal Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
2 Clinical Psychologist, Maternal, Fetal and Neonatal Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
3 Department of Pediatrics, Maternal Pediatric Health Specialist, Maternal, Fetal and Neonatal Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
10.22038/ijn.2025.75277.2452
Abstract
Background: Recent research suggests that mood disorders during pregnancy affect both parents, with maternal depression negatively impacting fetal and infant growth. However, few studies have simultaneously explored the influence of maternal and paternal depression on infant development and breastfeeding. This study aimed to concurrently examine the impact of postpartum depression in parents on the process of infant growth and exclusive breastfeeding.
Methods: This cohort study involved 150 couples and their infants at Vali-e-Asr Hospital in Tehran, utilizing convenience sampling. Data were collected via demographic questionnaires, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) at three time points: the last trimester of pregnancy, immediately after childbirth, and 4 weeks postpartum. Infant growth indicators (weight, length, head circumference) were assessed at birth, with weight and exclusive breastfeeding evaluated at 4 weeks and 6 months postpartum.
Results: Maternal depression showed a significant correlation with infant growth indicators and exclusive breastfeeding (P < 0.0001). Paternal depression was significantly associated with infant head circumference at birth (P < 0.001). Logistic regression analyzed the relationship between maternal and paternal depression.
Conclusion: These findings highlight the role of parental postpartum depression in influencing infant growth, development, and breastfeeding. Pre-conception screening and psychological interventions are recommended to prevent these effects.
 
Keywords
Breastfeeding
Infant
Growth and development
Newborn
Postpartum depression
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Iranian Journal of Neonatology
Volume 16, Issue 4
Autumn 2025
Pages 30-36