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Postpartum Depression and the Motherhood Penalty

Author

Listed:
  • Sonia Bhalotra

    (University of Warwick)

  • N.Meltem Daysal

    (Department of Economics, University of Copenhagen)

  • Louis Freget

    (Paris-Dauphine PSL University)

  • Jonas Cuzulan Hirani

    (VIVE)

  • Priyama Majumdar

    (University of Warwick)

  • Mircea Trandafir

    (Rockwool Foundation)

  • Miriam Wuest

    (Department of Economics, University of Copenhagen)

  • Tom Zohar

    (CEMFI)

Abstract

Using Danish administrative data linked to two independent, validated postpartum depression screenings, we study how postpartum mental health shocks shape womens labor market trajectories. Event-study estimates show no pre-birth differences in trends between depressedand 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

  • Sonia Bhalotra & N.Meltem Daysal & Louis Freget & Jonas Cuzulan Hirani & Priyama Majumdar & Mircea Trandafir & Miriam Wuest & Tom Zohar, 2026. "Postpartum Depression and the Motherhood Penalty," CEBI working paper series 26-01, University of Copenhagen. Department of Economics. The Center for Economic Behavior and Inequality (CEBI).
    • Handle: RePEc:kud:kucebi:2601
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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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