Epidemiological investigation of perinatal depression among pregnant and postpartum women: findings from a cross-sectional survey in the Philippines
At least 60% Filipino mothers experienced clinically significant perinatal depressive symptoms, which exceeds the established global average of 25%. Younger and single postpartum women were at greater risk, while pregnant and postpartum women who attended adequate prenatal visits were less likely to report depressive symptoms. Our study underscores the need for further research to uncover the true burden of poor perinatal mental health and calls for targeted early interventions and integrative public health strategies to support at-risk mothers, particularly those from socially disadvantaged backgrounds.
Authors
- Mayla D. Rivera
- Siobhan A. Loughnan (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8763-2822)
- Wilfredo D. Quijencio
- Arbie Diane Flores
- Ana Nelia Jumamil
- Anna Liza Alfonso
- Jose Edwardo Mamaat
- Mary Ann Bayani
- Nemencio Santos
- Vicki Flenady
- Rebecca Guariño
- Alma Trinidad Taragua
- Frances M Boyle
- Joycelyn Abiog Filoteo
- Joyce Lisa Acena
- Reinalyn Lim Cardenas
- Rachelle Sarmiento
- Joemer Calderon Maravilla
Institutions
- The University of Queensland (AU)
- Universiti Brunei Darussalam (BN)
- Ministry of Health (BN)
- Mater Research (AU)
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research (AU)
- Far Eastern University (PH)
Publication Details
- Journal
- BMJ Open
- Published
- 2026-02-01
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2025-109079
- Primary Topic
- Maternal Mental Health During Pregnancy and Postpartum
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00
Funders
- Mater Foundation
- Medical Research Council
- National Health and Medical Research Council
- Philippine Council for Health Research and Development