Prevalence of perinatal depression in rural settings and knowing risk factors

Abstract

Background: The mental health of pregnant women is critical for a healthy maternofetal outcome. Although postnatal depression has received a lot of attention, recent literature has indicated a large burden of the condition in the antenatal period, emphasizing its serious and long-term effects on both mother and infant. Methodology: This cross sectional study conducted over 100 healthy perinatal women attending Obst. OPD. Questionnaire 1 based on Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and Questionnaire 2 was used to screen all the study participants for depression and potential social and familial factors leading to the depression. Results: In study group of 100 patients 53 were antenatal (>28 wks of gestation) and 47 were postnatal (within 2 weeks of delivery). The prevalence of depression in present study was 19% (95%CI:14.0-22.0%) and was more in antenatal than in postnatal participants. The mean age of the participants was 25.02 ±7 yrs, 91% women were housewife, 65% were of low socioeconomic status and 49% were of below 8th standard educated. The major causative factors of depression among women with EDPS score > 10 includes violence at home, unhealthy familial relationship, and desire for male baby. Conclusion: Because of the hormonal imbalance, pregnancy causes major upheaval in the physiology and psychology of women. The establishment of a mental health team in perinatal care for screening, counseling, and treatment of psychiatric illnesses during and after pregnancy has the potential to prevent or alleviate perinatal depression. Systems should be in place to ensure diagnostic and treatment follow-up.