Background: The relation between place of
residence and risk of postpartum depression is
uncertain. We evaluated the relation between
place of residence and risk of postpartum
depression in a population-based sample of
Canadian women.
Interpretation: There are systematic differences
in the distribution of risk factors for
postpartum depression across geographical
areas, resulting in an increased risk of depression
among women living in large urban areas.
Prevention programs directed at modifiable
risk factors (e.g., social support) could specifically
target women living in these areas to
reduce the rates of postpartum depression.