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Cited by 5Maternal Mental Health During Pregnancy and PostpartumMaternal and Perinatal Health InterventionsMaternal and Neonatal Healthcare

Understanding mothers’ lived experiences of postpartum depression: a qualitative phenomenological study

Open access
Cirban Ekrem, Ebru, Kurt, Aylin, Kilci Erciyas, Şeyma·2025·BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth
DOI 10.1186/s12884-025-08538-4PMC PMC12777238
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Abstract

BACKGROUND: Postpartum depression negatively affects maternal wellbeing, infant development, and family relationships. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of mothers diagnosed with postpartum depression and to identify the psychosocial factors influencing their condition. METHODS: The qualitative study was conducted with 21 postpartum mothers who scored above the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale cut-off point of 12. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews and analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. RESULTS: Analysis revealed four main themes: (1) sociodemographic factors, (2) pregnancy and childbirth experiences, (3) personal approach, and (4) expectations. Participants reported that the presence of other children, increased household responsibilities, and changes in their pre-pregnancy lifestyle contributed to emotional distress. Traumatic birth experiences, risky pregnancies, and postpartum complications were additional triggers. Mothers described feelings of inadequacy, regret, self-neglect, and difficulty coping with motherhood, while expressing a strong need for emotional support from spouses, families, and healthcare professionals. CONCLUSION: In the postpartum period, maternal depression may result from a complex interplay of factors, including the physiological effects of pregnancy and childbirth, the psychological impact of the surrounding environment, and sociodemographic variables.

AI snapshot

Written from the paper’s full text.

TL;DR

This qualitative IPA study explored the lived experiences of 21 Turkish mothers who scored ≥12 on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, identifying four themes: sociodemographic factors, pregnancy and childbirth experiences, personal approach, and expectations. Depression was described as shaped by caregiving burden, traumatic or risky birth, feelings of inadequacy and regret, and unmet support needs.

Key findings

  • Four superordinate themes emerged: (1) sociodemographic factors, (2) pregnancy and childbirth experiences, (3) personal approach, and (4) expectations. Subthemes included number of children, household responsibilities, change of normal; risky/unplanned pregnancy, traumatic labor, complications; inadequacy, giving up on oneself, inability to cope, regret; and support from husband, family, and healthcare professionals.
  • Sociodemographic burden mattered: other children, increased household responsibilities, and changes in pre-pregnancy lifestyle contributed to emotional distress. Fifteen mothers expressed concern about anticipated life changes after birth, while six viewed the changes as beneficial personal growth/maturation.
  • Pregnancy and childbirth factors included risky pregnancy, unplanned pregnancy, traumatic labor, and postpartum complications. Seventeen mothers experienced postpartum challenges such as pain from surgical incisions, digestive disorders, and treatment side effects that hindered caring for and communicating with their infants.
  • Mothers described inadequacy, self-neglect, difficulty coping, and regret; twelve mothers reported regret about pregnancy/childbirth. They expected support from spouses, families, and health professionals, and unmet spousal or family support intensified distress.

Methods

  • Qualitative phenomenological design using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), conducted at Bartın State Hospital in Bartın, Türkiye, between March and August 2023.
  • Participants were 21 postpartum mothers who had given birth at the study hospital and scored 12 points or more on the Turkish Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Data came from in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews lasting 20–30 minutes, conducted during routine follow-up visits 4–6 weeks postpartum until data saturation.
  • Analysis followed five IPA stages; transcripts were read independently by the first and second authors, checked by the third author, and the study adhered to the COREQ checklist.

Limitations

  • Stated: qualitative data may not fully reflect participants’ feelings and thoughts; interviews conducted before discharge may affect mood; findings are constrained to the research group and cannot be generalized; further research in different contexts may offer more comprehensive understanding.
  • Stated: the study did not include perceived efficacy of labor epidural analgesia or physical activity levels during the third trimester, so their potential moderating or confounding effects could not be evaluated.
  • Evident from the text: the sample was 21 mothers from a single hospital in Türkiye, interviewed at 4–6 weeks postpartum and before discharge, which limits transferability; the sample was defined by an EPDS cutoff of 12 and self-report screening.

Model-written summary. Check it against the paper before relying on it.

Integrity signals

Registry

Crossref · 10.1186/s12884-025-08538-4

Cites

45 of 46 references verified1 citation errors · 0 not checkable

Statistics

Nothing to recompute.

Claims the paper makes

16 of 41 cited sources checked · 1 supported · 0 flagged · accuracy not yet measured

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  • Premisecitation

    Traditional postpartum practices in many cultures may increase the risk of postpartum depression in some mothers.

    “However, the extant literature suggests that these practices may increase the risk of postpartum depression in some mothers [5, 6].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [5] Nurhidayah S. Implementation of different cultures to influence postpartum depression. J Psychiatry Psychol Behav Res. 2023;4(1):22–9. source
    • cites [6] Davis EP, Narayan AJ. Pregnancy as a period of risk, adaptation, and resilience for mothers and infants. Dev Psychopathol. 2020;32(5):1625–39. source

      The passages on prenatal mental health and stress discuss barriers to care and postpartum depression, but not traditional postpartum practices. Searches for cultural postpartum practices and their relationship to depression found no passage addressing the claimed risk. (LLM, conf=0.73)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
  • Premisecitation

    In low- and middle-income countries such as Türkiye, there is a paucity of research examining how sociocultural influences, family dynamics, and healthcare interactions shape maternal emotional health.

    “In particular, in low- and middle-income countries such as Türkiye, there is a paucity of research examining how sociocultural influences, family dynamics, and healthcare interactions shape maternal emotional health [18, 19].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim2 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [18] Bektas G, Boelsma F, Gündüz M, Klaassen EN, Seidell JC, Wesdorp CL, et al. A qualitative study on the perspectives of Turkish mothers and grandmothers in the Netherlands regarding the influence of grandmothers on health related practices in the first 1000 days of a child’s life. BMC Public Health. 2022;22(1):1–14. source

      The Introduction says research on Turkish-background grandmothers’ influence on children’s health in the Netherlands has been limited, and the Discussion notes that family pressure could negatively affect mothers’ mental health. Neither passage establishes a paucity of research in Türkiye on how sociocultural influences, family dynamics, and healthcare interactions shape maternal emotional health. (LLM, conf=0.87)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
    • cites [19] Töz N, Arikan G, Üstündağ-Budak AM. The role of emotion regulation and maternal symptoms in Turkish mothers’ caregiving helplessness during toddlerhood. Curr Psychol. 2023;42(8):6106–16. source

      The Discussion’s “Limitations and Future Directions” section says research on caregiving helplessness is limited, describes the study as among the first in a non-Western culture, and identifies family type, gender roles, and co-parenting as factors worth investigating. It does not establish a broader research gap across low- and middle-income countries or address how healthcare interactions shape maternal emotional health. Page numbers are unavailable in our copy. (LLM, conf=0.88)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
  • Premisecitation

    The incidence of postpartum depression increases with the number of children, particularly when the number of children in the household is elevated.

    “The extant literature documents that the incidence of postpartum depression increases with the number of children, particularly when the number of children in the household is elevated [38–40].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [38] Aydın R, Palancı Ay Ö, Yazıcı Topçu T, Aktaş S. Tthe effect of mothers’ perceived spousal support in the early postpartum period on postpartum stress. STED / Sürekli Tıp Eğitimi Derg. 2022;31(2):0–2.

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites [39] Mollard E, Kupzyk K, Moore T. Postpartum stress and protective factors in women who gave birth in the united States during the COVID-19 pandemic. Womens Health (Lond Engl). 2021;17:17455065211042190. source

      The Results report high levels of self-reported depression and an association with preterm birth, but do not relate depression to the number of children. Searches for household size, number of children, and parity found no passage addressing the claimed increase in postpartum depression. (LLM, conf=0.74)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
    • cites [40] Zaidi F, Nigam A, Anjum R, Agarwalla R. Postpartum depression in women: A risk factor analysis. J Clin Diagn Res. 2017;11(8):QC13–6.

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Premisecitation

    Several 2025 studies highlight continuing gaps in access to trained mental-health professionals, even in high-income countries.

    “Furthermore, several 2025 studies highlight continuing gaps in access to trained mental-health professionals, even in high-income countries, underscoring the need for locally adapted models that bridge clinical and community care [51].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [51] Ji Q-Q, Wang M-Y. Epidemiology, pathophysiology, and interventions for postpartum depression: systematic review. World J Clin Cases. 2025;13(29):1–19. source

      The Results section on sociocultural disparities identifies scarce professional mental-health services and barriers to care, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The intervention-strategies section also discusses gaps where specialist care is scarce. The cited review does not establish the claimed gaps in high-income countries or attribute that finding to several 2025 studies. (LLM, conf=0.85)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
  • Premisecitation

    These traumatic births can lead to various psychological consequences, including stress, anxiety, fear of death, and posttraumatic stress disorder.

    “These traumatic births can lead to various psychological consequences, including stress, anxiety, fear of death, and posttraumatic stress disorder [41].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [41] Taheri M, Takian A, Taghizadeh Z, Jafari N, Sarafraz N. Creating a positive perception of childbirth experience: systematic review and meta-analysis of prenatal and intrapartum interventions. Reprod Health. 2018;15(1):1–13. source

      The Background associates a negative childbirth experience with PTSD, and the Plain English summary says psychological birth trauma can lead to PTSD. The paper also mentions fear of childbirth, but does not identify stress, anxiety, or fear of death as consequences of traumatic birth. (LLM, conf=0.88)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
  • May combine two claims. 43
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 32

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationcitation

    The paucity of research on mothers' experiences of postpartum depression within local and cultural contexts hinders understanding and limits the development of solution-focused interventions.

    “This paucity of research hinders understanding of mothers’ experiences of postpartum depression within their local and cultural contexts and limits the development of solution-focused interventions [17].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [17] Uçakcı Asalıoğlu C, Karagöl B, Yaman Sözbir Ş, Türkmen M. Determination of the prevalence of postpartum depression and its affecting factors in Turkish mothers and Syrian refugee/asylum seeker mothers. Florence Nightingale J Nurs. 2024;32(3):297–302. source

      The Introduction discusses migration-related risks and the need for culturally appropriate postpartum care; the Conclusion recommends further study in different sample groups. Neither section says that a paucity of research hinders understanding of mothers’ local and cultural experiences or limits solution-focused interventions (searched for research gaps and interventions). (LLM, conf=0.72)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Study design and conductcitation

    The semi-structured interview form was designed by the research team in accordance with extant literature and refined according to recommendations of two faculty members with expertise in qualitative research.

    “The form is an interview instrument designed by the research team in accordance with the extant literature [27–29] and comprises open-ended questions to elicit the experiences of mothers who have given birth in an obstetrics and gynecology hospital and are in the postpartum period with regard to postpartum depression. Once the questions had been formulated, they were refined in accordance with the”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim2 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [27] Jannati N, Farokhzadian J, Ahmadian L. The experience of healthcare professionals providing mental health services to mothers with postpartum depression a qualitative study. Sultan Qaboos Univ Med J. 2021;21(4):554–62. source

      The Methods section says the study used semi-structured interviews and that topic-guided questions were formulated in a research panel with faculty members experienced in qualitative interviews. It does not say the interview form was based on extant literature or refined on the recommendations of two faculty members. Its questions were for healthcare professionals, not postpartum mothers. (LLM, conf=0.85)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
    • cites [28] Johansson M, Benderix Y, Svensson I. Mothers’ and fathers’ lived experiences of postpartum depression and parental stress after childbirth: a qualitative study. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being. 2020;15(1):1722564. source

      Methods > Settings and participants (page not provided) says the researchers prepared an interview schedule with open-ended questions. It does not say the schedule was designed from existing literature or refined on the advice of two qualitative-research faculty members. (LLM, conf=0.83)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
    • cites [29] Praetorius R, Maxwell D, Alam K. Wearing a happy mask: mother’s expressions of suicidality with postpartum depression. Soc Work Ment Health. 2020;18(4):429–59. source

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Following birth, there is a precipitous decline in estrogen and progesterone levels, which increase during pregnancy.

    “Following birth, there is a precipitous decline in estrogen and progesterone levels, which increase during pregnancy.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [2] Stern C, Schwarz S, Moser G, Cvitic S, Jantscher-Krenn E, Gauster M, et al. Placental endocrine activity: adaptation and disruption of maternal glucose metabolism in pregnancy and the influence of fetal sex. Int J Mol Sci. 2021;22(23):12722. source

      Section 6.5 states that estrogen levels increase progressively toward term, and section 6.6 describes progressive secretion of progesterone into maternal circulation during pregnancy. Neither section states that estrogen and progesterone levels decline precipitously after birth; the post-delivery passage in section 1.2 concerns insulin sensitivity instead. Page numbers are not available in our copy. (LLM, conf=0.85)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
    • cites [3] Ritonga CMT, Sofinia H, Viky M, Rokibullah. The physiological changes in the postpartum period after childbirth. Asian J Soc Humanit. 2022;01(03):105–18. source

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    A significant proportion of extant literature concentrates on the prevalence, risk factors and clinical symptoms of postpartum depression, whilst qualitative studies on how mothers subjectively experience this condition are limited.

    “A significant proportion of extant literature concentrates on the prevalence, risk factors and clinical symptoms of postpartum depression, whilst qualitative studies on how mothers subjectively experience this condition are limited [16, 17].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [16] Çolak B, Ongun F, Su Aras Ö, Emin Demirkol M. Pregnancy and postpartum depression. Çukurova Med Student J. 2022;1(2):43–9.

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites [17] Uçakcı Asalıoğlu C, Karagöl B, Yaman Sözbir Ş, Türkmen M. Determination of the prevalence of postpartum depression and its affecting factors in Turkish mothers and Syrian refugee/asylum seeker mothers. Florence Nightingale J Nurs. 2024;32(3):297–302. source

      The Introduction reviews literature on postpartum depression prevalence, symptoms, and risk factors, and the Methods describe this paper’s own prevalence-focused study. Neither section establishes that qualitative studies of mothers’ subjective experiences are limited; searches for that research gap found no supporting passage. Page numbers were not available in our copy. (LLM, conf=0.84)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The onset of postpartum depression has been linked to a decline in the mother's self-esteem, a reduction in her abilities, a deterioration in the mother-infant relationship, an inability to care for the baby, and an inability to fulfill family responsibilities.

    “The onset of postpartum depression has been linked to a decline in the mother’s self-esteem, a reduction in her abilities, a deterioration in the mother-infant relationship, an inability to care for the baby, and an inability to fulfill family responsibilities [10].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [10] Wan Mohamed Radzi CWJB, Salarzadeh Jenatabadi H, Samsudin N. Postpartum depression symptoms in survey-based research: a structural equation analysis. BMC Public Health. 2021;21(1):1–12. source

      The Background (page unavailable) says postpartum depression may decrease daily performance, and the Discussion (page unavailable) lists inability to cope among symptoms assessed in postpartum mothers. The paper does not link postpartum depression specifically to a decline in maternal self-esteem, deterioration of the mother–infant relationship, inability to care for the baby, or inability to fulfill family responsibilities. (LLM, conf=0.82)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Social support has been shown to reduce symptoms of postpartum depression.

    “Some researches had demonstrated that social support has been shown to reduce symptoms of postpartum depression [40, 44, 45].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [40] Zaidi F, Nigam A, Anjum R, Agarwalla R. Postpartum depression in women: A risk factor analysis. J Clin Diagn Res. 2017;11(8):QC13–6. source
    • cites [44] Ardiani A, Soemanto S, Murti B. Meta-Analysis: the association between social support and postpartum depression. J Matern Child Heal. 2020;5(6):641–50. source
    • cites [45] Mercan Y, Selcuk KT. Association between postpartum depression level, social support level and breastfeeding attitude and breastfeeding self-efficacy in early postpartum women. PLoS ONE. 2021;16:1–12. source

      The Introduction reports an association between social support and postnatal depression, and the Discussion describes low social support as a determinant of postpartum depression level. However, this paper’s cross-sectional findings do not show that providing social support reduces depressive symptoms; its reported results concern breastfeeding self-efficacy. (LLM, conf=0.85)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Childbirth is among the most challenging psychological events for women, with 10-34% of women experiencing traumatic birth experiences.

    “Childbirth is among the most challenging psychological events for women, with 10–34% of women experiencing traumatic birth experiences.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [41] Taheri M, Takian A, Taghizadeh Z, Jafari N, Sarafraz N. Creating a positive perception of childbirth experience: systematic review and meta-analysis of prenatal and intrapartum interventions. Reprod Health. 2018;15(1):1–13. source

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Participants reported that the presence of other children, increased household responsibilities, and changes in their pre-pregnancy lifestyle contributed to emotional distress.

    “Participants reported that the presence of other children, increased household responsibilities, and changes in their pre-pregnancy lifestyle contributed to emotional distress.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Mothers described feelings of inadequacy, regret, self-neglect, and difficulty coping with motherhood, while expressing a strong need for emotional support from spouses, families, and healthcare professionals.

    “Mothers described feelings of inadequacy, regret, self-neglect, and difficulty coping with motherhood, while expressing a strong need for emotional support from spouses, families, and healthcare professionals.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Traumatic birth experiences, risky pregnancies, and postpartum complications were additional triggers.

    “Traumatic birth experiences, risky pregnancies, and postpartum complications were additional triggers.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    The prevalence of postpartum depression among mothers was influenced by several factors, including the increase in the number of children, the increase in household responsibilities, and the transition to a new life phase.

    “The prevalence of postpartum depression among mothers was influenced by several factors, including the increase in the number of children, the increase in household responsibilities, and the transition to a new life phase.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    The stress experienced by mothers during pregnancy was attributed to the demanding pace of household and field/garden work, and this stress persisted postpartum.

    “The stress experienced by mothers during pregnancy was attributed to the demanding pace of household and field/garden work. This stress persisted postpartum, as the mothers anticipated the continuation of this demanding routine.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    While mothers anticipated support from their spouses, most were unable to obtain it due to their husbands' perception of child care and childbirth as women's responsibility, leading to resentment.

    “While mothers anticipated support from their spouses, most were unable to obtain it due to their husbands’ perception of child care and childbirth as women’s responsibility, leading to resentment.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Not being able to take care of their babies and not being enough for them worried mothers.

    “Not being able to take care of their babies and not being enough for them worried mothers.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingnone given

    The risky pregnancy process and hospitalization had been challenging and traumatic for the mothers.

    “The risky pregnancy process and hospitalization had been challenging and traumatic for the mothers:”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Six mothers regarded the alteration in conventional wisdom as a beneficial phenomenon, and participants indicated that they had undergone personal growth and maturation as a result of becoming mothers.

    “The six mothers also regarded the alteration in the conventional wisdom as a beneficial phenomenon. The participants indicated that they had undergone personal growth and maturation as a result of becoming mothers.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    These challenges often led to feelings of self-loathing and difficulties in managing the process.

    “These challenges often led to feelings of self-loathing and difficulties in managing the process.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    The negative events related to pregnancy and delivery included a risky pregnancy process, an unplanned pregnancy or unintended pregnancy, traumatic labor, and complications in the postpartum period.

    “The negative events related to pregnancy and delivery included a risky pregnancy process, an unplanned pregnancy or unintended pregnancy, traumatic labor, and complications in the postpartum period.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    First-time mothers and mothers who gave birth to babies with special needs frequently expressed feelings of inadequacy.

    “First-time mothers and mothers who gave birth to babies with special needs frequently expressed feelings of inadequacy.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Findingnone given

    Unplanned pregnancies, physical changes, and having a baby with special needs have been shown to be particularly challenging for mothers, often leading to postpartum depression.

    “Unplanned pregnancies, physical changes, and having a baby with special needs have been shown to be particularly challenging for mothers, often leading to postpartum depression.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Postpartum mothers reported feelings of inadequacy and powerlessness, accompanied by physical symptoms of stress and depression.

    “Postpartum mothers reported feelings of inadequacy and powerlessness, accompanied by physical symptoms of stress and depression.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Postpartum mothers prioritize the needs of their children, often neglecting their own personal aspirations and wellbeing.

    “Postpartum mothers prioritize the needs of their children, often neglecting their own personal aspirations and wellbeing.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingreasoning

    The initial theme indicates that the mothers' other children, domestic responsibilities, and the transition from their previous lifestyle were contributing factors to the development of depression.

    “The initial theme indicates that the mothers’ other children, domestic responsibilities, and the transition from their previous lifestyle were contributing factors to the development of depression.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    The present study found that expectancies for support from spouse, family, and health professionals were expressed by mothers, with spouse and family support being the most frequently expressed expectancies.

    “The present study found that expectancies for support from spouse, family, and health professionals were expressed by mothers, with spouse and family support being the most frequently expressed expectancies.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    The twelve mothers reported feelings of regret concerning their pregnancies and childbirths, citing complications during these processes as the underlying cause.

    “The twelve mothers reported feelings of regret concerning their pregnancies and childbirths, citing complications during these processes as the underlying cause.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    This transition has been observed to result in a withdrawal from personal needs, often accompanied by a heightened sense of exhaustion.

    “This transition has been observed to result in a withdrawal from personal needs, often accompanied by a heightened sense of exhaustion.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Study design and conductown data

    The topics and codes were individually developed by the researchers, compared, and assessed numerous times before consensus was reached, with no disagreement.

    “Fourth, the topics and codes were individually developed by the researchers. Subsequently, the themes and codes were compared, and the data were assessed numerous times before the researchers arrived at a consensus. The codes and statements that made them up were ascertained independently by the researchers. Following an examination of these, a consensus judgment was reached. There was not”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductcitation

    The Turkish adaptation of the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale has an internal consistency coefficient (Cronbach's alpha) of 0.79.

    “The Turkish adaptation of the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale was conducted by Engindeniz [26] found the internal consistency coefficient (Cronbach’s alpha) of the scale to be 0.79.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [26] Engindeniz N. Edinburgh Doğum Sonrası depresyon Ölçeği’nin Türkçe formu için Geçerlilik ve Güvenirlilik Çalışması. Ege Üniversitesi; 1996 ;Bahar Sempozyumları, 1, 51–52.

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductnone given

    Prior to conducting the study, the researchers underwent training in qualitative research.

    “Prior to conducting the study, the researchers underwent training in qualitative research.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Study design and conductreasoning

    Themes that appeared in at least half of the individual transcripts were classified as current themes.

    “To support an ideographic perspective while counterbalancing a more generic perspective, themes that appeared in at least half of the individual transcripts were classified as current themes, as many motifs arose from”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Study design and conductown data

    The first and second authors independently read the transcripts and created the conceptual framework, and the third author reviewed the themes and analysis to confirm that participant narratives had significance.

    “Independent of one another, the first and second authors read the transcripts and created the conceptual framework. Additionally, the two writers collaborated to choose which topics best captured the experiences that the parents had. In order to confirm that the participant narratives had significance, the third author lastly went through the themes and analysis.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductnone given

    At the conclusion of each interview, the mothers' responses were reassessed by the researchers.

    “Third, at the conclusion of each interview, the mothers’ responses were reassessed by the researchers.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductcitation

    The study adhered to the COREQ (Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research) Checklist for qualitative research reporting.

    “The study adhered to the COREQ (Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research) Checklist for qualitative research reporting [33].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [33] Tong A, Sainsbury P, Craig J. Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ): a 32-item Checklist for Interviews and Focus Groups. Int J Qual Heal Care. 2007;19(6):349–57. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1093/intqhc/mzm042 source

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Study design and conductreasoning

    Audio recordings of every interview were played back to confirm the accuracy of the transcription and to compare it with the transcriptions.

    “In order to prevent data loss, the audio recordings of every interview were played back to confirm the accuracy of the transcription and to compare it with the transcriptions.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductnone given

    Two pilot interviews were conducted to refine the clarity and structure of the interview questions.

    “Additionally, we clarified that two pilot interviews were conducted to refine the clarity and structure of the questions.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductnone given

    The sample selection process continued until the point of data saturation was reached.

    “The sample selection process continued until the point of data saturation was reached.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductreasoning

    All interviews were conducted by a single trained researcher with prior experience in qualitative health research to ensure methodological consistency.

    “All interviews were conducted by a single trained researcher with prior experience in qualitative health research to ensure methodological consistency.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductcitation

    The mothers who were interviewed provided input on the themes' accuracy and dependability.

    “The mothers who were interviewed also provided input on the themes’ accuracy and dependability [36].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [36] Lietz CA, Langer CL, Furman R. Establishing trustworthiness in qualitative research in social work: implications from a study regarding spirituality. Qual Soc Work. 2006;5(4):441–58. source

  • May combine two claims.

    Study design and conductcitation

    A cutoff score of 12 on the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale was used to identify women at risk, as the validation study demonstrated optimal sensitivity and specificity at this threshold.

    “A cutoff score of 12 was used to identify women at risk, as suggested by the validation study, which demonstrated optimal sensitivity and specificity at this threshold [26].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [26] Engindeniz N. Edinburgh Doğum Sonrası depresyon Ölçeği’nin Türkçe formu için Geçerlilik ve Güvenirlilik Çalışması. Ege Üniversitesi; 1996 ;Bahar Sempozyumları, 1, 51–52.

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Participant P4's wish for a "magic wand" signals a deep longing for relief and suggests that depression was experienced not merely as sadness but as exhaustion and helplessness.

    “The participant’s wish for a “magic wand” signals a deep longing for relief and suggests that depression was experienced not merely as sadness but as exhaustion and helplessness.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationown data

    Taken together, the themes depict postpartum depression not as a single emotional state but as a complex experience involving identity disruption, relational disconnection, physical vulnerability, and overwhelming social expectations.

    “Taken together, these themes depict postpartum depression not as a single emotional state but as a complex experience involving identity disruption, relational disconnection, physical vulnerability, and overwhelming social expectations.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationreasoning

    Physiological hormonal changes occurring in the postpartum period may result in alterations to the emotional state of the mother.

    “These physiological hormonal changes that occur during the postpartum period may also result in alterations to the emotional state of the mother.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationown data

    In the postpartum period, maternal depression may result from a complex interplay of factors, including the physiological effects of pregnancy and childbirth, the psychological impact of the surrounding environment, and sociodemographic variables.

    “In the postpartum period, maternal depression may result from a complex interplay of factors, including the physiological effects of pregnancy and childbirth, the psychological impact of the surrounding environment, and sociodemographic variables.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductcitation

    The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was administered in its validated Turkish version.

    “The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was administered in its validated Turkish version.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [26] Engindeniz N. Edinburgh Doğum Sonrası depresyon Ölçeği’nin Türkçe formu için Geçerlilik ve Güvenirlilik Çalışması. Ege Üniversitesi; 1996 ;Bahar Sempozyumları, 1, 51–52.

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    This support is theorized to facilitate a more positive and enjoyable experience for the mother.

    “This support is theorized to facilitate a more positive and enjoyable experience for the mother.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Ineffective or unsatisfactory epidural analgesia during labor may be positively associated with higher postpartum depression symptoms.

    “Recent evidence shows that ineffective or unsatisfactory epidural analgesia during labor may be positively associated with higher postpartum depression symptoms [52], whereas higher levels of physical activity in late pregnancy appear to have a protective effect and are negatively correlated with the development of postpartum depression [53].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [52] Krusic SB, Milic JZ, Sharpe EE, Pejcic NZ, Pujic BP, Stojanovic-Tasic MP et al. Association between the effectiveness of labor epidural analgesia and postpartum depression: a prospective cohort study. J Anesth. 2025. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00540-025-03563-1. source

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductreasoning

    Because these variables were not assessed in this study, their potential moderating or confounding effects could not be evaluated.

    “Because these variables were not assessed in this study, their potential moderating or confounding effects could not be evaluated.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    The results further suggest that multiparous women may face challenges in receiving additional support due to their history with previous children, which could potentially elevate the risk of developing postpartum depression.

    “The results further suggest that multiparous women may face challenges in receiving additional support due to their history with previous children, which could potentially elevate the risk of developing postpartum depression.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    The presence of birth complications and high-risk pregnancies has been identified as a contributing factor to the development of postpartum depression.

    “As asserted by Kazemi et al. [37], the presence of birth complications and high-risk pregnancies has been identified as a contributing factor to the development of postpartum depression.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [37] Kazemi A, Ghaedrahmati M, Kheirabadi GR, Ebrahimi A, Bahrami M. The experiences of pregnancy and childbirth in women with postpartum depression: A qualitative study. Iran J Psychiatry Behav Sci. 2018;12(4)e66998. https://doi.org/10.5812/ijpbs.66998. source

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Socioeconomic factors have a deleterious impact on women.

    “As asserted by Kazemi et al. [37], socioeconomic factors have a deleterious impact on women.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [37] Kazemi A, Ghaedrahmati M, Kheirabadi GR, Ebrahimi A, Bahrami M. The experiences of pregnancy and childbirth in women with postpartum depression: A qualitative study. Iran J Psychiatry Behav Sci. 2018;12(4)e66998. https://doi.org/10.5812/ijpbs.66998. source

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    This would facilitate the birthing process and ensure a more comfortable postpartum period.

    “This would facilitate the birthing process and ensure a more comfortable postpartum period.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationown data

    The psychological impact of depression on mothers is characterized by a negative self-perception, feelings of inadequacy, perceived inability to cope, and a sense of powerlessness.

    “The psychological impact of depression on mothers is characterized by a negative self-perception, feelings of inadequacy, perceived inability to cope, and a sense of powerlessness.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationown data

    Motherhood is narrated as duty rather than choice, and delegating care to an older child illustrates a normalization of burden and highlights how overwhelming responsibility shaped participants' emotional experiences.

    “Here, motherhood is narrated as duty rather than choice. Delegating care to an older child illustrates a normalization of burden and highlights how overwhelming responsibility shaped participants’ emotional experiences.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationown data

    Our findings foreground the role of cultural expectations, family dynamics, and limited professional support as key determinants of maternal emotional wellbeing.

    “In contrast to research from many Western or high-income settings where perinatal mental-health services are relatively more accessible, our findings foreground the role of cultural expectations, family dynamics, and limited professional support as key determinants of maternal emotional wellbeing.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationown data

    Family presence served as emotional containment, suggesting support operated as a protective factor against emotional collapse.

    “Family presence served as emotional containment, suggesting support operated as a protective factor against emotional collapse.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductnone given

    The timing of the interviews, conducted prior to discharge, may have an impact on the subjects' moods.

    “The timing of the interviews, conducted prior to discharge, may have an impact on the subjects’ moods.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationown data

    Participant P15's excerpt conveys anticipatory grief and uncertainty.

    “This excerpt conveys anticipatory grief and uncertainty.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationown data

    Physical separation from the newborn appears to intensify emotional distress, suggesting that attachment disruption may contribute to depressive meaning-making.

    “Physical separation from the newborn appears to intensify emotional distress, suggesting that attachment disruption may contribute to depressive meaning-making.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    The findings of the study are constrained to the research group and cannot be generalized.

    “Consequently, the findings of the study are constrained to the research group and cannot be generalized.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductnone given

    As the data were collected using qualitative methods, they may not fully reflect the participants' feelings and thoughts.

    “As the data were collected using qualitative methods, they may not fully reflect the participants’ feelings and thoughts.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationown data

    Participant P16's language describes a fractured sense of self, where motherhood replaced a previously held identity, creating emotional distance from the former self.

    “This expresses identity disruption. The participant’s language describes a fractured sense of self, where motherhood replaced a previously held identity, creating emotional distance from the former self.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Higher levels of physical activity in late pregnancy appear to have a protective effect and are negatively correlated with the development of postpartum depression.

    “Recent evidence shows that ineffective or unsatisfactory epidural analgesia during labor may be positively associated with higher postpartum depression symptoms [52], whereas higher levels of physical activity in late pregnancy appear to have a protective effect and are negatively correlated with the development of postpartum depression [53].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [53] Petrovic D, Perovic M, Lazovic B, Pantic I. Association between walking, dysphoric mood and anxiety in late pregnancy: A cross-sectional study. Psychiatry Res. 2016;246:360–3. source
62 of 62

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Mothers who score above the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale cutoff of 12 are experiencing postpartum depression and can be studied as having postpartum depression.

    “The qualitative study was conducted with 21 postpartum mothers who scored above the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale cut-off point of 12.”
    “Mothers who scored 12 points or more on the scale were deemed to be at risk for postpartum depression.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Participants’ interview accounts accurately represent their lived experiences of postpartum depression.

    “Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews and analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.”
    “The interviews of those who agreed to participate were transcribed.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Postpartum depression engenders feelings of inadequacy and an inability to cope with infant care among mothers.

    “Postpartum depression has been shown to engender feelings of inadequacy and an inability to cope with infant care among mothers.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    The addition of a new infant to the family is associated with elevated levels of stress in mothers.

    “The addition of a new infant to the family is also associated with elevated levels of stress in mothers.”
4 of 4

Self-check

Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.

Each contradiction between two passages listed here was confirmed by an independent check.

  • Eligibility threshold differs between abstract and methods

    Minor

    The abstract says participants scored above 12, which excludes a score of 12. The methods explicitly include participants scoring 12 or more.

  • Two EPDS scores exceed the stated maximum

    Minor

    The scale is stated to have a maximum score of 30, but P6 and P10 are each assigned a score of 32.

2 of 2

Cites

Flagged first, then by citations

Research works printed but not linked: 5

  1. Tekinarslan İÇ, Eratay E. Investigation of parental behaviour during the period of compliance with adolescents with mental deficiency. E-J New World Sci Acad. 2013;8(3):363–74.
  2. Çolak B, Ongun F, Su Aras Ö, Emin Demirkol M. Pregnancy and postpartum depression. Çukurova Med Student J. 2022;1(2):43–9.
  3. Clarke V. Interpretative phenomenological analysis: Theory, method and research. Psychol Learn Teach. 2010;9(1):56–7.
  4. Alase A. The interpretative phenomenological analysis (ipa): a guide to a good qualitative research approach. Int J Educ Lit Stud. 2017;5(2):9.
  5. Aydın R, Palancı Ay Ö, Yazıcı Topçu T, Aktaş S. Tthe effect of mothers’ perceived spousal support in the early postpartum period on postpartum stress. STED / Sürekli Tıp Eğitimi Derg. 2022;31(2):0–2.

Cited by

Sorted by citations

Related

Authors
Cirban Ekrem, E., Kurt, A., & Kilci Erciyas, Ş.
Affiliations
Bartin University (TR)
Corresponding author
Kurt, Aylin
ORCID
Venue
BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Published
2025-12-02
Volume
26
Issue
1
Pages
30-30
ISSN
1471-2393 (ISSN-L)
DOI
10.1186/s12884-025-08538-4
PMC
PMC12777238
OpenAlex
W4416894825
Cited by
1
References
40
Citations by year
2025: 1
FWCI
0.90
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Licence
Locations
  • BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth (publishedVersion, cc-by-nc-nd)
  • PubMed (publishedVersion)
  • PubMed Central (publishedVersion, cc-by-nc-nd)
  • DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals) (submittedVersion, cc-by-sa)
Topics
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health › Maternal Mental Health During Pregnancy and Postpartum
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Obstetrics and Gynecology › Maternal and Perinatal Health Interventions
  • Health Sciences › Health Professions › General Health Professions › Maternal and Neonatal Healthcare
Keywords
postpartum depression, mothers' lived experience, psychosocial risk factors, birth trauma, household responsibilities, emotional support needs, maternal well-being, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale
MeSH terms
Adaptation, Psychological, Adult, Female, Humans, Mothers, Pregnancy, Social Support, Depression, Postpartum, Qualitative Research, Parturition, Postpartum Period, Young Adult

About these checks

Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.

Claims read by deepseek-v4.1-flash under definition version 3 (extract-v3) on 2026-11-04.

Classified by jev-1.13-20260917 (gold-guideline-v0.2) on 2026-11-04.

Cited sources are checked by gpt-6-sol.

Statistics and arithmetic are recomputed, not judged.

Confidence bands are shown only for fields calibrated on our annotated test set. None is calibrated yet, so no band is shown.

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