Prediction models for postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder acts as an invisible scar, eroding maternal mental health and exerting long-term effects on infant development. Existing screening methods have limitations, hindering early prevention. Predictive models offer a promising approach for early identification of postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder. This study aims to establish a current evidence baseline and outline future directions through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

We systematically searched ten databases-PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, and three Chinese databases (CNKI, Wanfang, CBM)-from inception to August 12, 2025. Studies developing and/or validating multivariable prediction models for post-traumatic stress disorder within 12 months postpartum were included. The PROBAST tool was used to assess risk of bias and applicability. Random-effects models were employed for meta-analysis of validated model performance (AUC, sensitivity, specificity).