PMH17 - Do Fathers of a Newborn get Depressed? Paternal Postnatal Depression in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Depression is a leading cause of global burden of disease. Depression in high risk group needs special attention. Depression among fathers of a newborn (Paternal Postnatal Depression) is not commonly identified as depression among mothers (Maternal Postpartum Depression) of a newborn. However, both maternal and paternal depression during postpartum period can impact child development. The aim of this study is to estimate the prevalence rate of paternal postnatal depression among fathers of a newborn in Saudi Arabia. This is a cross-section study of fathers who received a newborn baby within 6 months at the time of participation in the survey. Participants were selected using systematic sampling of fathers visiting birth registration office. Two hundred ninety participants were screened using validated self-administered Arabic version of Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Participants with EPDS score of 9 or above were considered to have depression. Demographic characteristics were summarized and reported in terms of mean, standard deviation and proportion. Both apparent and sensitivity/specificity adjusted prevalence were calculated and reported in terms of point estimate and corresponding Wilson 95% confidence interval. Analyses were carried out using SAS version 9.4. Among the 290 participating fathers, the average age was 34.97±8.56 years, with the reported average age of spouse was 29.18±7.41 years, and the newborns baby’s age was 43.13±35.88 days. 184(73.3%) fathers had prior children and median number of children living in house was 3(3.0). 141(50.9%) fathers had higher education. 263(94.27%) were employed and 218(83.2%) reported to have full time job. Only 78(28.36%) had own a home. 261(92.55%) were married to one wife. 159(55.9%) had planned pregnancy. The overall apparent prevalence of paternal postnatal depression was 27.9%, 95% CI (23.1, 33.3). However, adjusted prevalence was 16.6%, 95% CI (8.5, 25.6). Men mental health needs equal attention as women during and post-delivery of the newborn.