The Influence of Paid Maternity Leave on Postpartum Depression

Abstract

The prevalence of post-partum depression (PPD) in American mothers continues to remain constant within the United States. This is likely caused by various social determinants of health; namely stress, anxiety, socioeconomic standing and employment benefits. The research done for this paper focuses primarily on the influence of access to paid maternity leave on the rate of PPD as seen across the US and compared against other countries. Paid maternity leave has been identified as a beneficial contributor to positive maternal mental health outcomes following birth and is actively being advocated for within some states throughout the country. Studies conducted reveal how many mothers face stress related to securing employment throughout their leave while most employers that ensure adequate lengths of paid leave see only positive effects – if any – on the company’s overall productivity and profitability. Scholars across the country have come to the common conclusion that a paid leave of at least six months would in turn exhibit positive changes in maternal mental health throughout the lifespan.