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Postpartum Depression and the Motherhood Penalty

Author

Listed:
  • Bhalotra, Sonia

    (University of Warwick)

  • Daysal, N. Meltem

    (University of Copenhagen)

  • Fréget, Louis

    (Paris-Dauphine PSL University)

  • Cuzulan Hirani, Jonas

    (VIVE)

  • Majumdar, Priyama

    (University of Warwick)

  • Trandafir, Mircea

    (Rockwool Foundation)

  • Wüst, Miriam

    (University of Copenhagen)

  • Zohar, Tom

    (CEMFI)

Abstract

Using Danish administrative data linked to two independent, validated postpartum depression screenings, we study how postpartum mental health shocks shape women’s labor market trajectories. Event-study estimates show no pre-birth differences in trends between depressed and non-depressed mothers, but persistent employment gaps that widen immediately after birth. Health-care utilization patterns indicate that these differences reflect acute mental health shocks rather than pre-existing trends. The penalties are concentrated among less educated mothers and those in less family-friendly jobs. Our results highlight postpartum depression as a meaningful and unequal contributor to the motherhood penalty.

Suggested Citation

  • Bhalotra, Sonia & Daysal, N. Meltem & Fréget, Louis & Cuzulan Hirani, Jonas & Majumdar, Priyama & Trandafir, Mircea & Wüst, Miriam & Zohar, Tom, 2026. "Postpartum Depression and the Motherhood Penalty," CAGE Online Working Paper Series 786, Competitive Advantage in the Global Economy (CAGE).
    • Handle: RePEc:cge:wacage:786
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    File URL: https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/soc/economics/research/centres/cage/manage/publications/wp786.2026.pdf
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • I12 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health Behavior
    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth
    • J16 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Gender; Non-labor Discrimination

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