Slipping Through the Cracks: A Systemic Literature Review of Postpartum Depression Treatment Barriers among Black Birthing Parents Open Access
Jarrett, Sarita (Summer 2023)
Published
Abstract
Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious yet often overlooked illness that has been found to affect around 10% to 20% of people who give birth (Gavin et al., 2005). The prevalence of postpartum depression is often higher for Black people and other people holding marginalized identities (Erlich et al., 2010). A better understanding of the unique experiences of postpartum depression treatment among Black people who have given birth in the United States is needed.
Objective: This study aimed to explore the barriers that Black birthing parents may face in accessing and receiving treatment for postpartum depression.
Methods: Systemic database searches were conducted throughout the month of January in 2023. Three databases, identified with the help of a research librarian at Emory University, were used to search for previous literature exploring postpartum treatment barriers amongst Black birthing parents. Papers were screened for eligibility based on predefined inclusion criteria. Ultimately thirteen papers were identified and included in this review.
Results: From the findings of these studies, three key themes emerged around community perceptions of PPD and mental health treatment, PPD treatment utilization rates, and barriers to receiving care such as stigma.
Conclusions: Some of the identified barriers to PPD treatment among Black birthing parents include different cultural and societal perceptions of PPD and mental health care. While stigma has been found to be a barrier to PPD treatment for many, it does not account for the extremely low rates of PPD diagnosis and treatment among the Black community. Overall, there needs to be an increased focus on research and medical practices related to maternal mental health among Black communities in the United States.
Table of Contents
Chapter I: Introduction 1
Chapter II: Background and Literature Review 3
Child and Maternal Health: A Global Issue 3
Postpartum Depression: An Overview 3
Screening, Prevention, and Treatment 5
Postpartum Depression in the Black Community 8
Chapter III: Methods 11
Database Search Strategy 11
Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria 12
Data Analysis and Ethical Considerations 12
Figure 1: Study Selection Flowchart 14
Figure 2: Key Findings of Included Studies 15
Chapter IV: Results 18
Perceptions of PPD and Mental Health Treatment 18
Racial Differences in PPD Treatment Utilization and Reception 19
Stigma and Other Identified Barriers 20
Policy and Medical Practice Recommendations 21
Chapter V: Discussion 22
Limitations 26
Public Health Implications and Recommendations 27
Conclusions 30
References 32
Appendix: Important Terms and Definitions 48
About this Master's Thesis
| School | |
|---|---|
| Department | |
| Degree | |
| Submission | |
| Language |
|
| Research Field | |
| Keyword | |
| Committee Chair / Thesis Advisor |
Primary PDF
| Thumbnail | Title | Date Uploaded | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Slipping Through the Cracks: A Systemic Literature Review of Postpartum Depression Treatment Barriers among Black Birthing Parents () | 2023-07-21 16:23:41 -0400 |
|
Supplemental Files
| Thumbnail | Title | Date Uploaded | Actions |
|---|