Key clinical point: The odds of developing postpartum depression increased significantly among women who experienced disrespect and abuse during childbirth in facility settings.

Major finding: Women who self-reported disrespect and abuse, including physical abuse, verbal abuse, denial of care, and undesired procedures, scored significantly higher on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale 3 months after delivery. In addition, three or more types of mistreatment increased the odds of moderate and marked/severe postpartum depression (odds ratios, 2.90 and 3.86, respectively).

Study details: The data come from a population-based study called the 2015 Pelotas (Brazil) Cohort. Researchers assessed 3,065 mothers during pregnancy and at 3 months after delivery.

Disclosures: The study was supported by the Wellcome Trust, the Brazilian National Research Council, and the Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel. The researchers had no financial conflicts.