Investigating women's experiences of postpartum depression in Barbados

Research from developed nations estimate the rates of postpartum depression to be between 10-15% (Templeton et al., 2003; Edge et al., 2004; Brill, 2006). However, data from developing countries suggest that these figures are an underestimate. Pertinent studies suggest the prevalence of this condition can be as high as 60%, and assert that a greater burden is faced in the developing world (Almond, 2009). Caribbean research on postpartum depression is limited, but existing epidemiological studies have examined the incidence and prevalence of postpartum depression, and identified the condition as a public health issue (Wissart et al., 2005; Pottinger et al., 2009). Importantly, these studies have not examined Caribbean women's experiences with postpartum depression, nor have they used alternative methods, measures, and theoretical frameworks to investigate the condition. My presentation inserts Caribbean women's voices into the body of research on postnatal mental health by using qualitative research from my PhD thesis project which focuses on how postpartum depression has been understood, managed, framed, and treated by women in Barbados. Noting the absence of qualitative data in Caribbean-based studies, the information garnered by my project complements existing epidemiological research and can also work to inform local healthcare policies and help to conceptualize more effective postnatal programming for women. Anchoring the project's methods are Intersectional, Black and Caribbean Feminist Thought frameworks. This interdisciplinary approach facilitated the researcher and participants to use the research space as an opportunity to generate information, question power relations, explore the multiple layers of women's identities, and inspire change.