Objective:

To examine between-sample differences in postpartum depressive symptoms across survey waves in China and their association with structural resources.

Approach:

• Study Design: Repeated cross-sectional study using data from China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) across 2016, 2018, 2020, and 2022.
• Participants: 827 mothers with 0-year-old infants identified through linked questionnaires.
• Measurement: Depressive symptoms measured using CES-D total score; elevated symptoms defined as CES-D ≥ 36.
• Analysis: Descriptive statistics, multiple linear regression, binary logistic regression, and sensitivity analyses conducted.

Key Findings:

• Mean CES-D scores across survey waves were 32.1 ± 7.0, 32.8 ± 6.3, 32.8 ± 7.7, and 34.2 ± 8.4.
• Proportions of mothers with elevated depressive symptoms were 25.3%, 28.5%, 27.4%, and 31.4%.
• In fully adjusted models, the 2022 sample had higher CES-D scores (β = 3.02, SE = 0.99, p = 0.002) and higher odds of elevated depressive symptoms (OR = 2.56, 95% CI: 1.33–4.92, p = 0.005) compared to the 2016 sample.
• The structural resource index was negatively associated with elevated depressive symptoms (OR = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.77–1.00, p = 0.046).

Interpretation:

Postpartum depressive symptoms varied across CFPS survey-wave samples, with higher structural resources linked to lower odds of elevated depressive symptoms.

Limitations:

• The study is based on cross-sectional data, limiting causal inferences.
• Findings may not be generalizable beyond the surveyed population.

Conclusion:

Postpartum depressive symptoms differ across survey waves, and higher structural resources are associated with lower odds of elevated symptoms.