LAUSR

INTRODUCTION Immigrant women in Canada are at greater risk for postpartum depression (PPD) than native-born women yet face multiple barriers to care at individual and system levels. AIM To explore factors that contribute to PPD and health service accessibility, and the role of health services in supporting immigrant women with PPD. METHODS A qualitative interpretive descriptive design was used. Individual interviews were conducted with 11 immigrant women who had delivered a baby within the previous year and had experienced PPD. Inductive thematic content analysis was conducted. RESULTS Factors contributing to immigrant women's PPD included several social health determinants. Services were most helpful and accessible when providers acknowledged women's concerns, allowed time to build trust, provided culturally competent care, and helped with navigating services. Assessment approaches and organizational wait times created barriers to care. DISCUSSION Immigrant women with PPD see relationship building by providers as foundational to providing effective support, enhancing coping, and facilitating access to services. Improved communication with diverse ethno-cultural communities, assistance with system navigation, service integration, and timely, accessible services are needed. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Findings can inform health service delivery models and the development of healthy public policy to address perinatal mental health issues among immigrant women. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.