Abstract
BACKGROUND: Postpartum depression has a significant impact on the lives of the mother, her family, and the newborn. Yet, there is a significant delay in the diagnosis and treatment. Although many primary-care physicians believe it is their role to identify and treat postpartum depression, many of them do not perform screening modalities, and do not initiate treatment. The aim of this research is to shed light on the experiences of the mothers and to describe the process of diagnosis and treatment from their perspective. METHODS: In this qualitative study, we conducted in-depth interviews with Israeli women experiencing postpartum depression in the past 3 years. We utilized thematic analysis model to identify themes related to the diagnosis and treatment of postpartum depression. Each researcher independently read the interviews and identified relevant ideas and quotes. Ideas were coded, and then grouped into central themes and sub-themes. RESULTS: Nine women aged 29 to 45 participated in the study. We identified four main themes. The first was barriers in diagnosing postpartum depression. The women mentioned that physicians do not inquire about their mental state, lack of availability and coordination, women’s shame and judgmental attitude by the medical stuff. The second theme relates to the unique elements in postpartum depression including triggers, violence towards the baby, suicidal thoughts and difficulty in mother-baby bonding. The third theme was facilitators and barriers in the treatment. Women highlighted the importance of the family physician, other healthcare professionals, resources outside the healthcare-system, and fear to receive medications. The fourth theme pertains to women’s recommendations for improving the situation, such as getting support from other women, forming a specialized inpatient unit, administering the screening at a later period and discussion about depression before childbirth. CONCLUSION: In this study, women highlighted the difficulties they faced in receiving treatment for postpartum depression within the framework of primary-care. In addition, we emphasized unique aspects that require specific attention from the medical-team. Training healthcare providers to properly address postpartum depression is of significant importance. It is essential to increase the awareness among physicians so that they can correctly diagnose and offer treatment when needed. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12875-025-03004-8.