PREVALENCE, RISK FACTORS, AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION

Abstract

Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a prevalent and serious mental health condition that adversely affects mothers, infants, and families. Despite its significant burden, PPD remains underdiagnosed and undertreated, particularly in resource-limited settings. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of PPD, identify associated risk factors, and evaluate management strategies among postpartum women.

Methods: A descriptive analytical cross-sectional study was conducted with 300 postpartum women. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that included sociodemographic, obstetric, and psychosocial sections. PPD was screened using a validated instrument. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize characteristics and prevalence, and inferential analyses were performed to identify associations between PPD and various risk factors.

Results: The overall prevalence of postpartum depression was 28%. Significant risk factors identified included unplanned pregnancies, pregnancy complications, inadequate social support, marital dissatisfaction, and recent stressful life events. Among women with PPD, 59.5% relied primarily on informal support from family or friends, while only 35.7% sought professional help. Utilization of psychotherapy (23.8%) and pharmacological treatment (14.3%) was low.

Conclusion: Postpartum depression is highly prevalent and influenced by a multifactorial interplay of obstetric, psychological, and social determinants. The reliance on informal support and underutilization of professional services highlight significant gaps in mental healthcare access. The findings underscore the urgent need for integrated strategies, including routine screening, early intervention, and the development of culturally sensitive support systems to improve maternal mental health outcomes.