OBJECTIVES: to carry out a systematic review of studies of the extent of post-partum depression (PPD) in Brazil. METHODS: articles were searched for and selected from national and international periodicals included in the Lilacs, SciELO and Medline electronic databases. RESULTS: fourteen studies were selected, thirteen of which reported the prevalence of PPD and one, which followed up a limited number of cases (n=21) estimated the incidence of the disorder at 42.8%. The wide range of different populations studied, diagnostic methods used, and post-partum period monitored made it difficult to obtain an aggregate estimate for the prevalence of PPD in Brazil. Nevertheless, studies conducted at Family Health Program basic health units and among underprivileged populations suggest a prevalence of around 30 to 40%, although studies that are based on population-wide samples and tertiary hospital units reveal a prevalence of around 20%. CONCLUSIONS: although further studies are needed to characterize the specific features of the extent of PPD in Brazil, the available evidence provides sufficient justification for prioritizing treatment of mental health disorders in mothers attending the public health services.
Depression, postpartum; Prevalence; Mood disorders
