Personality traits as a risk factor for postpartum depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: Certain personality traits increase vulnerability to depression, but the evidence linking personality and postpartum depression (PPD) is less robust. This systematic review aimed to identify personality traits that increase the risk of PPD. Methods: We systematically reviewed studies retrieved from PubMed/Medline, PsycINFO, Scopus, CINAHL, and Cochrane, following the PRISMA guidelines for reporting. We carried out a meta-analysis on the association between neuroticism and PPD. Results: A total of 34 studies were analyzed. Of these, 31 considered at least one trait associated with PPD; 10 studies considered at least one trait not associated with PPD. The meta-analysis included 13 studies, concluding that neuroticism was associated with PPD (OR: 1.37; 95%CI: 1.22–1.53; p<0.001) [...].