More to lose? Longitudinal evidence that women whose social support declines following childbirth are at increased risk of depression

We examined the dynamic relationship between life changes (pregnancy and childbirth) social support during postpartum period. A large, nationally representative sample of Australian women (N=806) who completed Household Income Labour Dynamics in Australia Survey (HILDA) year immediately before after giving birth to a child reported on measures perceived mental health. Analyses indicated decrease both health having baby. Social period – controlling for prior baby predicted better women. However, experienced decline support, prenatal was risk factor wellbeing rather than protective factor. Women have ‘more lose’ are at increased ill?health if they cannot maintain existing sources support. Loss pregnancy should be considered as significant depression its own right one that warrants screening intervention.