Postpartum Depression During the Fourth Wave of the Pandemic and Related Factors

Abstract

Aims: Many studies have shown the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on postpartum depression (PPD) as a stressor. In addition, there have been many changes in the pandemic process, such as vaccination and removal of restrictions. However, few studies have been conducted on the psychological effects of changing conditions. In this study, we aimed to examine the frequency of PPD and the associated sociodemographic–obstetric factors in mothers who gave birth or were in the last pregnancy period in the fourth wave of the pandemic.
 Methods: This cross-sectional study included 211 women who underwent a postpartum checkup between December 2021 and August 2022. All women had given birth or passed the last part of their pregnancy in the fourth wave of the pandemic. PPD was measured using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). In addition, the authors assessed sociodemographic and obstetric characteristics with a form.
 Results: The prevalence of PPD was 22.7% (EPDS cut-off score ≥ 13). EPDS scores were higher in those with inadequate social support, fear of childbirth, or having a past psychiatric illness.
 Conclusions: In the late pandemic, the negative effect on PPD does not seem to continue. However, PPD remains a significant public health problem in Turkey. In addition, some sociodemographic characteristics associated with PPD continue to pose risks.