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03-02-2025 | Postpartum Depression | Review Article

The impact of prenatal smoking on postpartum depression: a systematic review

Authors: Karol Knysak, Alicja Maj, Karolina Domosud, Aleksandra Urban, Joanna Kacperczyk-Bartnik, Agnieszka Dobrowolska-Redo, Ewa Romejko-Wolniewicz

Published in: Archives of Women's Mental Health

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Abstract

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the correlation between prenatal smoking and postpartum depression (PPD) in order to determine if smoking cigarettes is associated with an increased risk of PPD, a prevalent emotional distress in women across various cultures.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted to find suitable literature following PRISMA guidelines. Authors searched PubMed and Web of Science databases using specific search terms related to depression and smoking. Articles published in English between November 2019 and November 2023 were screened. Titles and abstracts were reviewed for relevance, and eligible papers underwent detailed full-text analysis.

Results

334 records were screened, of which 32 met the eligibility criteria, and 10 were included in this review.

Conclusion

Our review provides proof that smoking before and during pregnancy increases the risk of postpartum depression, especially for women who smoke heavily. A more detailed examination of the specific mechanisms linking smoking to postpartum depression is essential and could be a crucial topic for future research.

Article Highlights

This study highlights the importance of addressing smoking cessation interventions for pregnant women to potentially reduce the incidence of PPD.
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Metadata
Title
The impact of prenatal smoking on postpartum depression: a systematic review
Authors
Karol Knysak
Alicja Maj
Karolina Domosud
Aleksandra Urban
Joanna Kacperczyk-Bartnik
Agnieszka Dobrowolska-Redo
Ewa Romejko-Wolniewicz
Publication date
03-02-2025
Publisher
Springer Vienna
Published in
Archives of Women's Mental Health
Print ISSN: 1434-1816
Electronic ISSN: 1435-1102
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00737-025-01560-7