Perceptions of perinatal depression and treatment needs in Malawi.

Abstract

Objectives: Perinatal depression, is a major health problem in Low and Middle Income Countries (LMIC). There is evidence for effective psychosocial interventions for perinatal depression in LMIC, but no such intervention has been developed for use in Malawi. This study was conducted to explore the perceptions of perinatal women and key maternal care health workers about perinatal depression and the health service needs required to inform development of a culturally sensitive and acceptable psychosocial intervention. Methods: We conducted a qualitative study in one rural and one urban health care setting in Lilongwe District, Malawi Results: We found that perinatal depression was recognized as a common mental health problem that affected functioning of women in the perinatal period. Financial difficulties, relationship problems, traumatic events and fear of birth outcomes were identified as causes of depression. Study participants acknowledged the need for support and an intervention that will address the identified challenges. Conclusions: The results of this study support plans to develop a family focused intervention for perinatal depression in Malawi addressing relationship, psychosocial and economic issues and it highlights the importance of strengthening the health delivery system especially at primary care level where the majority of women access care in Malawi and across Sub-Saharan Africa.