Association between gestational diabetes mellitus and postpartum depression: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract

The aim of this study is to provide a robust statistical analysis of the association between GDM and PPD. For this purpose, the PRISMA statement guided the reporting of results, while the MOOSE guidelines informed the methodological aspects. This strategy includes searching in several electronic databases. Statistical heterogeneity between studies was assessed using the Q-statistic and I-squared (I²) test. The final included studies comprised 29 studies with a total of 2,442,001 participants. Overall results showed that mothers with GDM are at a higher risk of developing PPD compared to mothers without GDM (RR = 1.42 (95 %CI: 1.17-1.72, P < 0.000)). To investigate potential sources of heterogeneity, subgroup analyses based on Study design (P = 0.085), study type (P = 0.357), duration of PPD measurement (P = 0.329), and continent (P = 0.163) were not significant, but it was significant based on the PPD measurement tool (P < 0.001). Finally, the results of this systematic review and meta-analysis provide strong evidence that GDM is an important risk factor for PPD. These findings underscore the critical importance of active screening and providing targeted psychological and therapeutic support to mothers with GDM, both during pregnancy and after delivery.