Postpartum Depression Drops 22% After Hong Kong Extends Maternity Leave By 1 Month: Study

A study by the University of Hong Kong’s medical school (HKUMed) found that extending the city’s paid maternity leave from 10 to 14 weeks led to significant improvements in maternal mental health. 

The research, in partnership with the Duke-NUS Medical School (Singapore) and the University of British Columbia (Canada), revealed a 22% reduction in postnatal depressive symptoms and a 33% drop in mothers reporting emotional distress due to baby care following the extended break.

The policy change, implemented in December 2020, requires employers to provide an additional four weeks of paid leave at 80% of the employee’s daily wage, with government reimbursement capped at HK$80,000 per employee. Researchers emphasized that giving mothers more recovery time after childbirth not only improved their well-being but also fostered stronger parent-child bonding and reduced stress.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a mood disorder affecting new parents, causing sadness, anxiety, fatigue, and difficulty bonding with the baby. Risk factors include a history of depression, stress, and lack of support. The Mayo Clinic notes seeking help early is crucial for recovery.

According to the 2024 study, about 30% of new mothers in Hong Kong experience postnatal depression, significantly higher than the global average of 18%.

Despite the benefits, Hong Kong’s maternity leave remains shorter than in many developed economies. The UK offers 39 weeks of 100% paid leave, Canada offers leave of up to 18 months, and the European Union mandates at least 14 weeks, with many countries exceeding that minimum. Experts suggest further extensions could bring even greater health benefits for mothers and children.

The findings highlight the importance of paid leave in preventing postnatal depression, which affects one in ten mothers globally. As Hong Kong continues discussions on family-friendly workplace policies, the study strengthens the case for further reforms.

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