Longitudinal Influences on Maternal–Infant Bonding at 18 Months Postpartum: The Predictive Role of Perinatal and Postpartum Depression and Childbirth Trauma

<b>Background:</b> This study investigated the pathways through which various psychological problems occurring across the perinatal period influence mother-child bonding within the first 18 months postpartum, with a particular focus on the relationship between perinatal and postpartum depression and childbirth-related posttraumatic stress symptomatology. <b>Methods:</b> A multi-stage longitudinal design included three assessment points: recruitment and initial assessment in the third trimester of pregnancy (T1), a second assessment at 8 months postpartum (T2), and a final assessment at 18 months postpartum (T3). A total of N = 51 mothers completed all three waves (total follow-up period per participant: approximately 21 months). Sociodemographic data were collected, and all assessments were completed online. <b>Results:</b> Our findings revealed significant indirect effects, linking higher levels of perinatal depressive symptoms in the third trimester with mother-child bonding difficulties at 18 months postpartum. This association was mediated by both greater childbirth-related posttraumatic stress symptoms and elevated postpartum depressive symptoms at 8 months. <b>Conclusions:</b> These preliminary results highlight how complex perinatal factors at different stages (i.e., during pregnancy and early postpartum) influence mother-child bonding at 18 months postpartum. Understanding these pathways is essential in order to inform targeted interventions and to promote optimal maternal mental health and bonding outcomes.