Preventive interventions for paternal perinatal depression from pregnancy through one year after childbirth: A scoping review

Abstract

Background

Depression affects both fathers and mothers during the perinatal period; however, preventive interventions targeting paternal perinatal depression remain under-researched. This scoping review aimed to systematically map the literature on preventive interventions for paternal perinatal depression from pregnancy through one year after childbirth.

Methods

This review followed JBI methodology. We included studies of primary and secondary preventive interventions for paternal perinatal depression from pregnancy through one year after childbirth. Primary preventive interventions promoting mental health were included when paternal depression was reported as an outcome; studies targeting individuals with a diagnosed depression were excluded. MEDLINE, CINAHL, APA PsycINFO, CENTRAL, and Ichushi-Web were searched for published literature, and Google Scholar and ProQuest Health and Medical Collection for grey literature. Two reviewers independently screened titles/abstracts and full texts. Data were extracted using a standardized form and analyzed according to intervention characteristics, including target population, outcomes, aims, content, delivery mode, timing, provider, theoretical basis, and level of intervention.

Results

Forty-seven studies (2012–2023), primarily from the United States and Australia, were included, with randomized controlled trials as the predominant design. Interventions showed substantial heterogeneity across target populations, aims, outcomes, content, delivery strategies, timing, and providers. Many adopted a couple-based approach and aimed to promote overall mental health rather than focusing solely on fathers or depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Given the interdependence of maternal and paternal mental health, couple-based interventions may provide a more comprehensive understanding of their effects on preventing paternal depression and promoting overall mental health.