| Highet et al. 2014, Australia | Phenomenological approach | They were recruited via the “beyondblue” website and contact lists where people had registered their details and expressed an interest in participating in research projects | Grounded theory perspective. Face-to-face (n = 24) and telephone interviews (n = 4) with women who had experienced PPD | The central phenomenon was called Loss and Frustration based on three themes: Pregnancy and motherhood-related changes, Disappointment about the pregnancy and motherhood experience and The experience of symptoms of depression and anxiety |
| Letourneau et al. 2007, Canada | Explorative descriptive approach | 41 women were included in the study | Qualitative data were collected on support needs, the availability of resources, perceived barriers to support and support preferences of women who had experienced PPD symptoms. Thematic content analysis. Individual (n = 41) and group interviews (n = 11) | Mothers’ need for support included help with the household, assistance with the baby and informational support. Affirmational support was perceived as best received from someone who understood or appreciated their experiences, such as a mother who had also suffered from PPD. However, household, baby and informational needs must be met before emotional and affirmational needs are addressed |
| McCarthy & McMahon 2008, New Zealand | Explorative approach | Fifteen women who had received treatment and support for PND from the community mental health services participated | Grounded Theory perspective A modified analytic inductive method Interviews | The majority of the women had experienced a “crisis point” before seeking help and treatment due to the stigma attached to feelings of inability to cope and being a “bad mother”. The women were unable to differentiate between “normal” levels of postpartum distress and depressive symptoms that might require intervention |
| Slade et al. 2010, UK | Explorative approach | Thirty women recruited from a randomized controlled trial | A template approach Semi-structured interviews | Three themes emerged: Seeking help, Roles and relationships and Experiences of intervention or support |
| Williams 2013, USA | Qualitative, naturalistic inquiry design | Nine women who were medically diagnosed with PND and self-identified as recovered from PND | Constant comparison of data for discovery of thematic junctures Interviews | Four themes emerged: Prelude to recovery, Igniting recovery, Recovery as a victory and Realizing recovery |