Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale Research Articles

Social Support among Mothers with Spouse Postpartum Depression

Introduction: Social support is one of the important things that affect factor for postpartum depression. Social support after childbirth is essential to reduce postpartum depression. Support from a spouse reduces psychological disorders among mothers. Objective: This study was to determine the social support among mothers with postpartum depression. Method: This study used a survey design. This research was conducted at Community Health Centers in Yogyakarta with 102 sample postpartum women. The study used the Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS), social support questionnaire, and demographic data questionnaires. The descriptive statistic uses percentage, mean, and standard deviation. Results: The results revealed that the mean score on the EPDS was 15.89 (SD ± 2.47). Generally, postpartum mothers showed moderate postpartum depression. Postpartum mother got high social support from their partner on average for the four subscales were respectively: emotional support 56.9%, household support 52%, babysitting support 51%, and help support 52.9%. Recommendation: Social support has an essential role in minimizing postpartum depression. Strategies to decrease postpartum depression should focus on increasing social support for postpartum mothers. The indicators of postpartum depression should be screened for and closely monitored by healthcare professionals. Additionally, healthcare professionals should provide sufficient assistance that is customized to the mother's needs through her spouse and family

The Effect of Spousal Support on Postpartum Depression and Quality of Life

Objective: The study was conducted to determine the effect of spousal support on postpartum depression and quality of life.
 Methods: The descriptive and correlational study was conducted with 201 mothers between the 4th and 12th week postpartum in a Lokman Hekim Hospital of Ankara. The data were collected with the Personal Information Form, the Spouse Support Scale, the Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale, and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale-Short Form. The data were evaluated using the SPSS 22.0 program, parametric methods, correlation and regression analyses and descriptive statistics. 
 Results: The mean scores of the participants were 66.23±18.19 on the Spouse Support Scale, 6.14±7.90 on the Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale and 15.09±3.72 on the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale. The postpartum depression rate was 25.4%. There was a negative and high correlation between the Spouse Support Scale and the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (r=-.84, p

Factors Influencing the Effectiveness of Midwife Led Debriefing on Prevention of Postpartum Depression in Western, Kenya

Childbirth is a stressful event in women’s lives and could influence emotions which may lead to mental ill health like depression in the postnatal period if not resolved. Depression is a common mental disorder with serious consequences especially during the postpartum period. The prevalence of postpartum depression varies globally, and can be as low as 0.5% or as high as 60.8% in the first year after childbirth. Due to its detrimental impacts, postpartum depression is a serious public health problem. Debriefing is a type of interpersonal therapy, utilized to treat and prevent serious depressive disorders in both pregnant women and the general adult population. Although debriefing has been shown to be useful in both preventing and treating postpartum depression, its effectiveness has not been fully evaluated. The purpose of the study was to assess factors influencing the effectiveness of midwife-led debriefing on prevention of Postpartum Depression in Western region, of Kenya. The study used a quasi-experimental design with pre and post-test assessments. Systematic random sampling was used to identify and allocate participants. The target population was women of childbearing age and study participants were women who gave birth during the study period, of which a sample of 212 participated. Data were collected using standard questionnaire including Edinburg postpartum depression scale (EPDS) score and an interview schedule. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. Chi-square was used to test association between variables. Logistic regression model was used to assess the influence of time-based outcome, based on social cultural and demographic characteristics of women on prevention of postpartum depression. Study results indicated that parity, Age, living together with spouse and social support (p=0.004; p=0.003; p=0.002) were significant factors. Additionally, it showed that social support significantly reduced the symptoms of postpartum depression. In conclusion, at the 5% significance level, the key factor was social support (p=0.001) <0.05 which showed that participants postpartum depression symptoms decreased greatly. Midwife led debriefing is recommended as a routine care during perinatal period. Further studies to be done to explore how social support influences midwife led debriefing on prevention of Postpartum depression.

Prevalence, characteristics, and associated determinants of postpartum depression among adolescent mothers in Kenyatta National Hospital and Pumwani Maternity Hospital from March to July 2023: A prospective, cross-sectional study

Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a depressive episode that occurs in women within 6 weeks of parturition. It has a global prevalence of 13-19%. Long-term consequences include a high likelihood of experiencing depression in mothers, suicide, and infanticide. There is currently no routine screening for postpartum depression at the postnatal clinic. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of postpartum depression among adolescent mothers, characteristics, and associated determinants in Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) and Pumwani Maternity Hospital (PMH). Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, involving 162 consenting postnatal adolescent mothers (14-19 years) at Kenyatta National and Pumwani Maternity hospitals. Consecutive sampling was employed. Data were collected using a structured sociodemographic questionnaire and the Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Results: Of all participants, 77.2% were from PMH and 22.8% were from KNH. Most participants were 18–19 years old, had primary education as the highest entry level, were single, depended on their parents for financial support, and were Christians. For obstetric characteristics, the majority had no history of miscarriage, were primipara, had unintended pregnancy, had amenorrhea as the first symptom, had an initial antenatal clinic (ANC) visit during the first trimester, had at least four ANC visits, and delivered via spontaneous vaginal birth. The prevalence of postpartum depression was 22.2%. The most prominent characteristics of PPD were feeling overwhelmed, sadness, anxiety, and crying episodes. Associated determinants of PPD in adolescent mothers were age <18 years, starting ANC visits after the second trimester, less than four ANC visits, being HIV-positive, unsupportive partner, and having a post-delivery illness for the mother. Conclusion: This study established that approximately one in four adolescent mothers are likely to suffer from postpartum depression.

Incidence of depression in pregnant and postpartum women in tertiary care hospital using Edinburg postpartum depression scale: A prospective observational clinical study

Abstract Background: Depression is a mood disorder characterized by physical symptoms like fatigue, pain, sleep disturbances, and/or a persistently low mood. Antenatal depression refers to a nonpsychotic depressive condition that starts during pregnancy. Postpartum depression, on the other hand, emerges within a month after childbirth and can persist for up to 1 year. The objective of this study is to determine the occurrence of depression among women during both the antenatal and postnatal periods by utilizing the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Materials and Methods: From 1 August 2022 to 1 September 2023, 246 women responded to the EPDS questionnaire during and after childbirth. Valid consent was obtained from all participating subjects before the study’s commencement. Results: The study revealed that depressive disorders affected 23.2% of women during the antenatal period and 20.3% during the postnatal phase. A higher prevalence of depression was observed among multiparous women (53.7%) and those aged between 25 and 34 years (64.2%). Additionally, significant associations between depression and risk factors like cesarean delivery (54.1%) were identified. Conclusion: Both the postpartum period and pregnancy pose increased risks for the onset of various psychiatric disorders. This research assisted in screening, classifying, and identifying high-risk individuals and providing guidance and support to those requiring additional assistance and counseling. Therefore, regular EPDS screening can potentially enhance maternal and child health outcomes.

Development of Practice Guidelines for Peripartum Depression in Primary Healthcare

Abstract Background Antenatal and postpartum major depressive episode (MDE) according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th Edition (DSM-V) is defined as either daily sustained sad mood or lack of enjoyment or desire for a minimum two weeks plus four associated manifestations (only three if the two major symptoms are present): 1) Unintentional notable slimming up or down; 2) Sleepiness or sleeplessness; 3)Tiredness sensation; 4) Guilty or futility sensation; 5) Declined concentration capacity; 6) Frequent suicidal thoughts or 7) Psychomotor excitation or delay, that start throughout pregnancy or during the first 4 weeks postpartum respectively. Objective To develop Egyptian practice guidelines for peripartum depression in Primary Healthcare (PHC). Methods The current study was conducted thorough Delphi technique by participation of Thirteen experts at psychiatry and family medicine specialties from different governmental universities, Ministry of Health and Population (MOHP), World Health Organization (WHO) and World Organization of Family Doctors (WONCA) via email thorough three consecutive phases of Delphi technique. Results The current study recommended health education programs, provision of awareness about physical exercise’s importance for prevention of antenatal and postnatal depression, adding telephone- based peer support for the preventive measures of the antenatal depression and family therapy for the postpartum depression prevention. Screening for all the pregnant women every trimester by patient health questionnaire II and screening for all the new mothers every well child clinic visit in the first year after delivery by Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS). Diagnosis by beck depression inventory II questionnaire and Postpartum Depression Screening Scale (PDSS) for antenatal and postnatal depression respectively with post diagnosis evaluation for: 1) Comorbid anxiety; 2) Bipolar disorder; 3) Thoughts of harming intrauterine fetus or newborns; 4) Suicidal thoughts and 5) Psychotic features. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for treatment of mild cases and CBT with half dose sertraline for moderate cases of antenatal depression. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for mild cases, CBT and the usual dose sertraline for moderate cases with no hormonal therapy for any patient. Referral for patients with: 1) severe depression; 2) comorbid anxiety; 3) bipolar disorder; 4) thoughts of harming intrauterine fetus or newborns; 5) suicidal thoughts; 6) psychotic features; 7) substance abuse. Conclusion development of Egyptian practice guidelines for peripartum depression in PHC. Wide dissemination of the practice guidelines to all the Egyptian PHC facilities via a suitable method and training programs for the family physicians on practicing these guidelines must be ensured.

Association Between Mode of Delivery and Abnormal Scores on Psychometric Scales After Stillbirth [ID: 1379988

INTRODUCTION: Those who deliver a stillborn infant are at increased risk of postpartum depression (PPD), postpartum anxiety (PPA), and lower post-trauma recovery. We aimed to explore whether PPD, PPA, or post-traumatic growth (PTGI) scores differed among women who had stillborn infants via vaginal delivery (VD) versus cesarean delivery (CD). METHODS: This is a secondary analysis of case–control study from the Stillbirth Collaborative Research Network. Longitudinal pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum data were collected between people who had stillbirth and live birth between 2006 and 2009. Those with stillborn infants who completed psychological assessments for PPD (Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale), PPA (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory), and PTGI were included. The primary outcome was screening positive for PPD (score >10 on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale). Secondary outcomes were screening positive for PPA (score >40 on the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory), and PTGI score, measured continuously. Outcomes were compared between those who had VD versus CD. Multivariable analysis controlling for demographic or obstetric differences between groups was conducted. RESULTS: Of 982 stillbirths, 269 patients (27.4%) completed postpartum psychological assessments and were included. Of these, 41 (15.2%) had CD. Those who had CD were more likely to be Hispanic (48.8% versus 27.2%, P=.006) and have older gestational age (34.4±4.3 weeks versus 26.9±6.5 weeks, P<.001). Mode of delivery (MOD) was not associated with differences in screening positive for PPD (CD odds ratio [OR] 1.62 [95% CI 0.79–3.27]) or PPA (CD OR 1.52 [95% CI 0.75–3.05]). However, MOD was associated with lower PTGI score. This difference persisted after controlling for confounders (beta coefficient −0.17 [standard error 0.07, P=.0141]). CONCLUSION: After stillbirth, MOD is not associated with differences in screen-positive rates for PPD or PPA. However, delivering a stillborn infant via CD was associated with lower PTGI score, which suggests additional support resources may be needed in this population to promote positive psychological growth.

Prevalence, associated factors and perinatal outcomes of antepartum depression in Ibadan Nigeria

BackgroundAntepartum depression is the most common mental health disorder in pregnancy and it is also a risk factor for adverse perinatal outcomes. Low and middle income countries like Nigeria bear a higher burden of antepartum depression compared with high income countries. Prioritizing mental health issues among pregnant women is crucial to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. We determined the prevalence, associated factors and perinatal outcomes of antepartum depression among pregnant women in Ibadan, Nigeria.MethodsA prospective cohort study was conducted among 1745 pregnant women enrolled early in pregnancy (≤ 20 weeks) at four comprehensive obstetric facilities within Ibadan metropolis. Antepartum depression was ascertained during the third trimester using the Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale ≥ 12. The primary exposure was antepartum depression and the outcome variables were the perinatal outcomes. The associated factors assessed included sociodemographic, obstetric, psychological, and lifestyle characteristics. Bi-variate logistic and Poisson regression analyses were used to assess the factors and relative risk for perinatal outcomes of antepartum depression.ResultsThe prevalence of antepartum depression was 14.1%. The significant factors associated with APD after adjusting for confounders were: high income (≥ 20, 000) which was protective (AOR) = 0.59; 95% CI: (0.40 – 0.88); p-value: 0.010] and perceived stress increased the odds of APD in a monotonic fashion: moderate stress [AOR = 2.39; 95% CI: (1.01 – 5.7); p-value: 0.047], high stress [AOR = 6.43; 95% CI: (2.28 – 18.2); p-value: < 0.001]. Preterm delivery was the only significant perinatal outcome [Relative Risk (RR) = 1.66; 95% CI (1.14 – 2.39); p-value = 0.007]. Depression did not increase the risk of having low birth weight babies (p = 0.513), macrosomia (p = 0.894), birth asphyxia (p = 0.317), and caesarean section (p = 0.298).ConclusionsAPD was prevalent among our study population. The significant factors identified in this study can be targeted to reduce the occurrence of APD among pregnant women in Nigeria through appropriate social and public health interventions which include APD screening, counselling, and the provision of emotional support for pregnant women during antenatal care.

A Prospective Study of Social Needs Associated with Mental Health Among Mothers Living in Poverty

Due to a growing appreciation for socioeconomic status influencing postpartum care, we hypothesized that social needs would impact mental health measures among women living in areas of high poverty. Our aim was to examine the incidence of depression and anxiety as assessed by the Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD7) scores at 1 and 3 months postpartum compared to reported social needs at delivery.

An Analysis of Obstetric Factors Contributes to Postpartum Depression among Pakistani Women

In this research authors were to observe relations among obstetric issues in addition symptoms of postpartum depression among mothers of Pakistan (N = 400; mean age = 29.5). The data were collected from postpartum rural mothers age 15-44 years selected by using simple random sampling technique. The screening of the depression of postpartum was completed by Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale and then subjects are analyzed by using chi-square and multiple linear regression approach to examine the relations. The results revealed mothers (31.8%) have severe depressive symptoms on postpartum screening tool. Complications such as nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain and postpartum hemorreagha reported repeatedly. A number of abortions and pregnancies, unplanned pregnancy, mode of delivery, pregnancy/delivery problems, not breastfeeding and poor maternal and infant care were highly significant with postpartum depression. Anemia, vomiting, abdominal pain, body swelling and difficult labor were not originated forecasters of depression related to postpartum in multiple regression model. Study suggested a massive need for proper attention, care and medication for maternal in antenatal and postpartum period.

Postpartum depression and the scarcity of generalizable evidence: A mini-review of existing literature and the way forward

The first known reference to Postpartum Depression (PPD), was Hippocrates’ 4th century hypothesis that drainage of lochia, if suppressed, could flow to the brain resulting in agitation, delirium, and episodes of mania. This hypothesis became dogma and lasted over a millennium. Over the years, knowledge of PPD has evolved but researchers still struggle to establish it as a distinct disease entity. It was initially recognized as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with postpartum onset in the 1994 revision of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), the “bible” of diagnostic criteria for mental health professionals and researchers. It is currently recognized as MDD with peripartum onset (DSM-V) and researchers have admitted that persuasive evidence to indicate that postpartum depression is distinct from other existing depressive disorders, has not been found. Several diagnostic tools such as the Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale (EDPS), the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and the Postpartum Depression Screening Scale (PDSS) are available for use but none of these is universally accepted. With much of the published literature plagued with bias and structural inconsistencies, the credibility of the evidence has been greatly diminished. The difficulty with disease designation, the absence of a universally accepted tool for diagnosis and the scarcity of generalizable evidence on the subject has impaired the early recognition and effective management of PPD. It is therefore expedient, to critically appraise some of the available literature and proffer solutions to navigating this conundrum.

Women's Mental Health as a Factor Associated with Exclusive Breastfeeding and Breastfeeding Duration: Data from a Longitudinal Study in Greece.

Background: This study investigated the relationship between exclusive breastfeeding and breastfeeding duration, and maternal psychological well-being in the perinatal period. Methods: A longitudinal study involving a retrospective follow-up of a group of 1080 women from pregnancy to the 1st year postpartum, who gave birth during the 5-year period between January 2014 and January 2019 in Athens, Greece, was designed. Women’s history and two psychometric tools—the Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS) and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) administered at 5-time points—were used for data collection. Logistic regression analysis and a series of multiple analysis of variance (MANOVA) tests were performed. Results: The chance for exclusive breastfeeding (giving only breast milk) appeared to decrease (a) with an increase of the scores for psychometric tools antenatally (PHQ-9, p = 0.030) or at the 6th week postpartum (EPDS, p < 0.001 and PHQ-9, p < 0.001), (b) with an increase in the number of psychotherapeutic sessions needed antenatally (p = 0.030), and (c) when the initiation of psychotherapy was necessary postpartum (p = 0.002). Additionally, a shorter duration of any breastfeeding (with or without formula or other types of food/drink) seems to be associated with (a) the occurrence of pathological mental health symptoms (p = 0.029), (b) increased PHQ-9 scores antenatally (p = 0.018), (c) increased EPDS scores at the 6th week (p = 0.004) and the 12th month postpartum (p = 0.031), (d) the initiation of psychotherapy postpartum (p = 0.040), and e) the need for more than 13 psychotherapeutic sessions (p = 0.020). Conclusions: This study demonstrates a negative relationship between exclusive breastfeeding and breastfeeding duration, and poor maternal mental health in the perinatal period.

657 The impact of fetal intervention on maternal perinatal mental health

The Edinburg postpartum depression scale (EPDS) is a valuable tool to screen for perinatal depression. Recognizing depression after diagnosis of fetal anomaly is important to protect mother and baby from adverse outcomes. Our objective is to assess the impact of fetal intervention (FI) on mothers diagnosed with fetal anomaly. Retrospective review of patients with confirmed fetal anomaly receiving prenatal care at our center from January 2018 to January 2020. FI was offered for open neural tube defects, fetal anemia, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, pleural effusion, bladder obstruction, and twin-twin transfusion syndrome. EPDS surveys were administered during perinatal care. Patients were separated into two groups: Fetal anomaly-intervention (FA-FI) and no intervention (FA-non FI). Women with elevated EPDS scores (≥ 10) or indication for assessment were referred to psychiatry. Fisher’s exact test and logistic regression analyses were performed, with statistical significance defined as p<0.05. 462 patients met criteria, 77 in the FA-FI and 385 in the FA-non FI group. There was no significant difference in mean EPDS scores between FA-FI and FA-non FI, antenatal [5.48 (±4.60), 5.95 (±5.53), p = 0.25] or postnatal [6.44 (±4.56), 6.62 (±5.93), p = 0.39]. However, women with a diagnosis of cardiac anomaly who underwent FI had greater antenatal EPDS scores [7.75 (±1.50) vs. 5.49 (±5.21), p = 0.02]. Positive psychiatric history was a significant predictor of depression (p < 0.0001). Neither intervention (p = 0.24) nor anomaly (p = 0.43) were predictive of depression. The FA-non FI group had a higher EPDS score in the postnatal period in patients followed and treated by psychiatry [8.29 (±4.60) vs 12.18 (±5.97), p = 0.007; 6.33 (±3.33) vs 10.58 (±4.49), p = 0.01]. Type of anomaly or need for intervention were not predictive of depression in the perinatal period. The greatest predictor of depression is a history of a pre-existing psychiatric disorder. For patients with fetal anomaly, not receiving FI, depression presents in the postnatal period during psychiatric treatment.

Postpartum depression and its association with social support: a cross sectional study at a maternity hospital in Kerala

Background: Childbirth is associated with significant physiological changes as well as challenges related to psychiatric disorders. Postpartum depression (PPD) is one such condition associated with high levels of morbidity and mortality. Screening postpartum women for early identification of depression and its prompt treatment should be a crucial component of postnatal health care. Assessment of prevalence and correlates of postpartum depression hence becomes important. Methods: Cross-sectional assessment of mothers (n=250) during postnatal visits to the family planning clinics between four weeks and one year of delivery, using Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS), Social Support Questionnaire and a structured questionnaire for the assessment of psychosocial risk factors was carried out in a tertiary care postgraduate teaching hospital of north Kerala. Multivariate Regression Analysis was used to identify the risk factors for PPD. Results: 27.6% had postpartum depression (score of >11 in EPDS), and 18.4% had suicidal ideation. Factors associated with the presence of PPD included alcohol use of husband, marital discord, lack of family support and lack of physical help during the postnatal period. Difficulties during labour, the gender of the baby or postnatal complications did not have a significant association with PPD. Though there was a negative correlation between Social Support Scale (SSS) total score and EPDS score, it was not statistically significant. (Pearson’s co-relation coefficient= -0.084, p= 0.186). Conclusion: Prevalence of depression in postnatal women is very high. Modifiable psychosocial factors have a close association with PPD, and these are opportunities for intervention as well. Considering the morbidity and mortality linked to untreated PPD, screening of postnatal women and routine provision of therapeutic services to them is suggested.

Evaluation of postpartum depression scores of elective and emergency cesarean section patients

Aim: One of the factors affecting postpartum depression is anxiety during pregnancy. This study aims to provide early diagnosis of postpartum depression by investigating the impact of pre-operative anxiety of women, who had an elective or emergency cesarean, on postpartum depression. Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 103 patients (51 elective, 52 emergency cesarean section cases). Before the surgery, the patients filled State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and a form surveying the descriptive properties and obstetric histories. Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS) was applied 6 weeks after delivery. The impact of these results and the anxiety levels in the preoperative period on postoperative depression were analyzed. Results: The mean value of STAI-1 in the emergency and elective cesarean section groups were 41.31 and 43.61, respectively. Both groups had higher than average (>41) anxiety levels. The mean values of the STAI-2 were equal (48.35) and the anxiety level was above average. As per EPDS, the mean scores of the emergency and elective cesarean section groups were 6.98 and 5.31, respectively. The difference of postpartum rates between two groups was statistically significant (P=0.050). Postpartum depression was observed in 11.53% of the emergency group and 3.92% of the elective group. Conclusion: Both groups had high state and trait anxiety, however, the postpartum depression rate in emergency patients was higher. It is significant to provide psychological support to the patients with high pre-operative anxiety and early treatment to the ones with a higher tendency of depression in the postpartum period.

Associated factors of postpartum depression in women attending a hospital in Pokhara metropolitan, Nepal

Associated factors of postpartum depression in women attending a hospital in Pokhara metropolitan, Nepal - IJOGR- Print ISSN No: - 2394-2746 Online ISSN No:- 2394-2754 Article DOI No:- 10.18231/j.ijogr.2019.080, Indian Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Research-Indian J Obstet Gynecol Res

Postpartum Depression and its Associated Factors: A Community-based Study in Nepal.

Postpartum depression is a type of mental disorder associated with childbirth during pregnancy or within the first postpartum year. It is reported as a common psychological health problem affecting 10-15% of women worldwide. The duration of postpartum depression frequently depends on its severity and the time of initiation of treatment. This study assessed depression and its associated factors among postpartum period women of Godavari municipality, Lalitpur, Nepal. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted using Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale among 195 mothers who were within six months of the postpartum period. The chi-square and logistic regression were applied to establish the association between postpartum depression and associated factors. Out of the total 195 postpartum women, 37(19%) women suffered from depression and out of those women 2.1% had suicidal thoughts. Among the associated factors, education, occupation, the intent of pregnancy, family support and pregnancy-related problems/complications were found to be significantly associated with Postpartum depression (p<0.05). Nearly one-fifth postpartum women suffered from some type of depression. It is one of the public health concerns which directly or indirectly corresponds to the socio-economic condition of the women. The improved education and economic status of women, intention of pregnancy, family care and support during pregnancy and the postpartum period and early diagnosis and management of health problems could reduce the magnitude of the postpartum depression.

Factors associated with pregnancy-related anxiety in Tanzanian women: a cross sectional study

ObjectiveTo identify factors predictive of pregnancy-related anxiety (PRA) among women in Mwanza, Tanzania.DesignA cross-sectional study was used to explore the relationship between psychosocial health and preterm birth.SettingAntenatal clinics in the...

Prevalence of Antenatal Depression among Antenatal Women

INTRODUCTION Pregnancy is a period when both physiological and psychological changes occurs in a womanrsquos body. Most often they are expected to be happy and excited about the new role. At the same time they may feel uncertain about their new role as a mother fears about the pregnancy or coping with labor and delivery. With pregnancy being a period of high vulnerability. Depression during pregnancy demands a greater attention due to1.rate of depression during pregnancy is high during antenatal period 2. it is the strongest risk factor for post-natal depression and 3. it leads to adverse maternal and fetal outcomesOBJECTIVES 1. To assess the prevalence of depression among antenatal women. 2. To determine the association between prevalence of depression and demographic variablesMETHODS A descriptive cross sectional design was selected for the study. Sample for the study were 135 antenatal women attending antenatal OPD in their second or third trimester of pregnancy. Data was collected using a proforma to elicit baseline characteristics and EPDS inventory.RESULT Out of 135 women 131 antenatal women scored 14 and above on the scale indicating 97.03 of them suffered from probable depression and the rest of them 2.96 scored 13 to 14 which indicated high possibility of depression. There was a significant association with the type of family and age of the women. Depression was not associated with any other demographic characteristics of the womenCONCLUSION The study findings confirm the findings of the previous study findings that there is an alarming increase of depression among the antenatal women which need to be identified and addressedKEY WORDS Prevalence Antenatal depression Antenatal OPD Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale EPDS

The Association Between Intimate Partner Violence and Signs of Depression During Pregnancy in Kilimanjaro Region, Northern Tanzania.

Intimate partner violence (IPV) against pregnant women is common with severe health consequences to women and their babies. The aim of the present study is to measure the association between IPV and signs of depression among pregnant women attending antenatal care in a semi-urban setting in northern Tanzania. A cross-sectional study was conducted from March 1, 2014, to May 30, 2015, among pregnant women attending routine antenatal care in Moshi Municipality, Tanzania. During their third trimester, self-reported exposure to IPV was assessed using a validated structured questionnaire adopted from the World Health Organization's (WHO) Multi-Country Study on Women's Health and Domestic Violence. Signs of depression were assessed using Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale. A total of 1,116 pregnant women were included in the analysis. A total number of 433 (38.8%) reported to be exposed to at least one type of violence during their pregnancy, and 128 (11.5%) presented with signs of depression. The most common type of violence experienced was emotional violence (30.7%), followed by sexual violence (19.0%) and physical violence (10.0%). Exposure to at least one type of violence was the strongest predictor for depression (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 5.06; 95% confidence interval [CI] = [3.25, 7.86]), followed by women who reported their primary source of emotional support was individuals not related to their family as compared with support obtained from their male partner/husband (AOR = 2.25; 95% CI = [1.26, 4.02]). Positive HIV/AIDS status (AOR = 2.27; 95% CI = [1.01, 5.14]) and previous history of depression (AOR = 1.62; 95% CI = [1.00, 2.64]). After adjusting for other predictors and types of violence, physical violence was the strongest predictor for signs of depression (AOR = 4.42; 95% CI = [2.65, 7.37]). Signs of depression were commonly observed among pregnant women and strongly associated with exposure to any type of IPV. The present findings indicate an urgent need for screening depression and IPV to mitigate the adverse health outcomes related to both IPV and depression during pregnancy.