LOS ANGELES - They might relish becoming parents, but they can be unprepared for the infant in their lives. They're sleep-deprived, confused and irritable. They're the fathers.

Studies of the connection between mental health and childbirth have long focused on women, but some men experience prenatal and postpartum depression too, according to research released yesterday.

The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found that 10.4 percent of men experienced serious depression at some point between his partner's first trimester and one year after childbirth, more than double the depression rate for men in general. U.S. men were more likely to experience such depression, 14.1 percent here compared with 8.2 percent internationally.

Depression in either parent can affect the relationship and the child's development, said James F. Paulson, lead author of the study. - Los Angeles Times

NewsdayTV's Doug Geed is heading 'Out East' to showcase the ultimate local spots you need to explore. Credit: Randee Daddona, Michael A. Rupolo Sr.

Out East Show: Visit The Shamrock evergreen maze, Sannino Vineyard, Seven Ponds Orchard and the Warrior Ranch Foundation NewsdayTV's Doug Geed is heading 'Out East' to showcase the ultimate local spots you need to explore.

NewsdayTV's Doug Geed is heading 'Out East' to showcase the ultimate local spots you need to explore. Credit: Randee Daddona, Michael A. Rupolo Sr.

Out East Show: Visit The Shamrock evergreen maze, Sannino Vineyard, Seven Ponds Orchard and the Warrior Ranch Foundation NewsdayTV's Doug Geed is heading 'Out East' to showcase the ultimate local spots you need to explore.

Subscribe

Unlimited Digital AccessOnly 25¢for 6 months

SUBSCRIBESALE ENDS SOON | CANCEL ANYTIME