Exploring the Lived Psychosocial Experiences of First-Time Mothers with Postpartum Depression: A Qualitative Study

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common mood disorder affecting approximately 10–20% of mothers worldwide, with a disproportionately higher burden in low- and middle-income countries. First-time mothers are particularly vulnerable because they face the physical, psychological, and social challenges of transitioning to motherhood for the first time. However, their lived experiences remain insufficiently explored, especially within non-Western contexts such as Pakistan. This qualitative study aimed to explore the psychosocial factors contributing to postpartum depression among first-time mothers. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with seven first-time mothers experiencing postpartum depression. The interviews were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Five superordinate themes emerged from the analysis: the shattered expectations of motherhood, the isolation spiral, partner dynamics as either anchor or burden, the body and mind disconnect, and cultural and familial pressures. The findings reveal that postpartum depression is shaped by the complex interaction of individual, relational, and sociocultural factors. These insights highlight the need for culturally sensitive screening, family-centered interventions, and enhanced psychosocial support to improve maternal mental health during the transition to motherhood.