Slomian et al.

(2019) performed a meta-analysis on postpartum women in order to examine the

relationship between breastfeeding and postpartum depression. Their findings supported the
notion that breastfeeding may reduce the risk of PPD. Breastfeeding for at least six months
decreased the risk of severe PPD symptoms in mothers compared to lesser durations of
breastfeeding or never lactating. This study demonstrates that prolonged lactation may reduce
the risk of PPD. On the other hand, Johnson et al. (2020) did a qualitative study. In-depth
interviews with women led to the authors’ discovery that the link between breastfeeding and
PPD is more nuanced than previously thought. Some women also said that the pressures of
breastfeeding made them more anxious and tense. This research highlights the need to study
breastfeeding’s influence on moms’ mental health on an individual basis.

Johnson, S., Adam, S. and McIntosh, M., 2020. The lived experience of postpartum depression:
A review of the literature. Issues in Mental Health Nursing, 41(7), pp.584-591.
Slomian, J., Honvo, G., Emonts, P., Reginster, J. Y., & Bruyère, O. (2019). Consequences of
maternal postpartum depression: A systematic review of maternal and infant outcomes.
Women’s Health, 15, 1745506519844044.