<p>Search strategy for MEDLINE.</p>

Inclusion criteria will be: (1) prevalence of AAARDS assessed at least once during the perinatal period and at ≥24 months post-birth, (2) AAARDS assessed using a validated measure and/or diagnostic interview, (3) full-text available online. Exclusion criteria will be: (1) grey literature, (2) qualitative, interventional, or animal studies, (3) studies with a selected sample, (4) studies with a small sample size (N < 10), and (5) studies that synthesise existing research.

Screening and data extraction will be conducted by two independent reviewers, with any conflicts resolved by a third reviewer. Risk of bias will be assessed using a modified version of the Downs and Black checklist. Data will be narratively synthesised, and meta-analyses will be conducted where appropriate.</p> <p>Discussion</p><p>The present protocol describes the methodology for a systematic review investigating the long-term course of perinatal AAARDS.

Findings will address a gap in the literature and enhance our understanding of the natural course of perinatal anxiety, which could help to inform clinical services and resource allocation.</p> <p>Registration</p><p>This review has been registered on PROSPERO (registration code: CRD420251073221).</p></div>