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A recent analysis published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine suggests that exercise-only programs can significantly reduce the severity of postpartum ‘baby blues’ and lower the risk of developing major depression in new mothers. The study emphasizes the mental health benefits of consistent moderate-intensity exercise, finding that at least 80 minutes per week of activities like brisk walking, water aerobics, and resistance training can lead to notable improvements.
Postpartum depression and anxiety, which affect many new mothers, are linked to decreased self-care and compromised infant bonding. This can hinder the child’s development, with potential long-term effects on emotional and cognitive health. Traditional treatments for postpartum mental health issues include medications and counseling, but these options can be costly and sometimes come with side effects. The researchers point to exercise as a promising, accessible alternative.
In order to draw these conclusions, the team analyzed 35 studies involving over 4,000 women from 14 countries. The studies assessed various exercise interventions—ranging from aerobic routines and strength training to yoga—and tracked depressive and anxiety symptoms within 12 months of childbirth. The pooled data revealed that exercise-only interventions reduced the severity of these symptoms and cut the risk of major postpartum depression by 45%.
The timing and intensity of exercise were found to be important factors. Interventions started within 12 weeks of childbirth were more effective than those begun later, and higher volumes of exercise yielded greater symptom relief. However, researchers noted that a minimum of 80 weekly minutes of moderate exercise, spread over four days, is necessary for a moderate reduction in symptoms.
While the study showed promising results, researchers noted variability in the mental health assessment tools used across studies and acknowledged that most research took place in high-income countries. They suggest that further investigation is needed to determine how exercise affects those experiencing both depression and anxiety.
“Overall, postpartum exercise reduced the severity of depressive and anxiety symptoms and the odds of postpartum depression,” the authors concluded. “Starting it within the first three months after giving birth has the potential to significantly improve postpartum mental health.”
This research supports exercise as a safe, accessible, and cost-effective option to promote mental well-being in new mothers. The authors hope the findings will encourage the inclusion of exercise in postpartum health guidelines.
For more information, see: Impact of postpartum physical activity on maternal depression and anxiety: a systematic review and meta-analysis, by Andy Deprato et al., British Journal of Sports Medicine (2024). DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2024-108478.
