Background Women of reproductive age constitute a significant proportion of immigrants from South Asia to high-income countries. Pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period place increased demands on women's psychological resources and relationships. The aim of this review was to evaluate the available evidence about the prevalence, nature and determinants of postpartum mental health problems among South Asian women who have migrated to high-income countries. Methods Using a systematic strategy, CINAHL, Medline, PsychInfo and Web of Science databases were searched. Results Fifteen studies conducted in different high-income countries met inclusion criteria. Prevalence estimates of clinically significant symptoms of postpartum depression (CSS-PPD) varied widely (1.9-52%): the most common estimates ranged from 5 to 20%. Five studies found approximately a two-fold increase in risk of CSS-PPD (Odds Ratios 1.8-2.5) among overseas born women with a South Asian subgroup. The most common determinants appeared to be social factors, including social isolation and quality of relationship with the partner. Barriers to accessing health care included lack of English language proficiency, unfamiliarity with local services and lack of attention to mental health and cultural factors by health care providers. Limitations The settings, recruitment strategies, inclusion and exclusion criteria, representative adequacy of the samples and assessment measures used in these studies varied widely. Many of these studies did not use formally validated tools or undertake specific subgroup analyses. Conclusions Reductions in postpartum depression could be achieved by increasing awareness of available services and ensuring health care professionals support the mental health of women from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. © 2014 Elsevier B.V.

Mental health South Asia immigrants postpartum

puerperal depression puerperium developing country health care personnel quantitative study mental health human social isolation statistics and numerical data social determinants of health Developed Countries priority journal qualitative research high income country meta analysis income South Asia migrant psychology Humans Emigrants and Immigrants semi structured interview female Southeast Asia Review pregnancy cultural factor prevalence standards adult health care access developed country Cultural Characteristics childbirth systematic review Depression, Postpartum Asia, Southeastern Health Services Accessibility health care delivery