What percentage of new mothers experience postpartum depression?

Research indicates that approximately 21% of new mothers experience postpartum depression, making this figure significant in the context of perinatal mental health. Postpartum depression is a serious mental health condition that can occur in the months following childbirth and is characterized by symptoms such as severe mood swings, irritability, and feelings of inadequacy that can greatly affect a mother's ability to care for herself and her baby.

Understanding this statistic is crucial for mental health professionals and support systems, as it highlights the prevalence of this condition and the need for adequate screening and intervention strategies for new mothers. It underscores the importance of both awareness and education around postpartum mental health to facilitate timely support and treatment for those affected.

The other figures presented, while they do reflect varying levels of maternal mental health concerns, do not align with the most widely accepted statistics regarding postpartum depression rates.