Paid Family Leave An Exciting Opportunity to Slash Postpartum Depression Odds!
Paid Family Leave May Reduce Incidence of Postpartum Depression
Paid Family Leave: A Boost for New Mothers’ Mental Health and Breastfeeding Rates
New mothers living in states with generous mandated paid family and medical leave can now rejoice, as a recent study suggests that they are less likely to experience postpartum depression and are more likely to breastfeed their newborns. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone, or in this case, two latches with one breast pump!
The study, conducted by researchers at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, examined pregnancy outcomes in 43 states and analyzed each state’s level of support for parental leave. Shockingly, the United States remains among the few wealthy countries without federally mandated paid parental leave. Come on, Uncle Sam, catch up!
Results revealed that women residing in the eight states with the most generous paid family leave had a whopping 9% greater chance of breastfeeding at six months postpartum compared to states with little to no paid leave. It seems like a little extra time off can bring a whole lot of milkshakes to the yard!
But wait, there’s more. Those living in states with moderate leave coverage had a 10% lower likelihood of developing symptoms related to postpartum depression. Say goodbye to those weepy episodes and hello to happier days of motherhood!
Dr. Madeline Perry, a fourth-year resident in obstetrics and gynecology at Feinberg, highlighted that mental health conditions are the leading cause of maternal mortality in the U.S. and postpartum depression affects around one in eight new mothers. This study reinforces previous research that shows paid leave can reduce postpartum depression symptoms. So, let’s give moms the support they deserve and keep the new mom blues at bay.
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Interestingly, the study also found that women benefit even more when state Medicaid programs cover delivery costs in addition to generous paid leave. Those lucky ladies residing in these states had a whopping 32% greater likelihood of breastfeeding at six months postpartum and a 15% lower likelihood of suffering from postpartum depression. It’s like winning the lottery while sipping on a cup of herbal tea!
Breastfeeding has numerous health benefits for both mom and baby. Babies enjoy improved gastrointestinal function and brain development, while moms have a lower risk of certain cancers. However, many moms are forced to stop breastfeeding when they have to return to work. Paid leave gives them the space and time to continue their breastfeeding journey and make the decision that’s best for them and their baby.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room. State-level family leave programs are different from the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which allows new parents to take time off but does not require employers to pay them during their absence. While FMLA has shown some improvements in postpartum outcomes, these improvements are seen mainly in higher-income populations. It’s time for the big boss to step up and recognize that paid leave is a necessity for all new parents, regardless of their income.
So, let’s raise a glass (or a baby bottle) to all the states with generous paid family leave policies! Cheers to happier and healthier mothers, thriving infants, and a society that values the well-being of its parents. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to petition for a national holiday dedicated to nap time for new parents. Anyone care to join me?
More information: The American Pregnancy Association has more about maternity leave.
Source: Northwestern University, news release, Nov. 2, 2023
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