Abstract
This article aims to analyze, through a literature review, the interrelationship between cesarean section and postpartum depression, assessing causes, risk factors and reflexes. Postpartum depression is a mental disorder that affects between 10 and 20% of women and is observed, especially, in pregnant women who have experienced symptoms related to stress, anxiety and depression, and may also be associated with social conditions. Cesarean section is associated with biological changes in the mother's organism, such as variation in the serum level of hormones, prolactin and interleukin-6, hemorrhage, in addition to feelings of fear and pain. Primiparous women, especially over 30 years old, are at greater risk of developing postpartum depression, as well as those who have had an unwanted or unintended pregnancy. In addition to the repercussions of depressive conditions for women, which include suicidal ideations and changes in sexual function, there is a greater risk of infanticide, delay in the development of the baby's communication skills and increased health costs. Thus, there was a need for postpartum depression to be considered by clinicians, since it may appear before or after delivery, emphasizing the importance of early assessment, which may include psychological, pharmacological and hormonal interventions.