Risk Factors For Postnatal Depression Research Articles

Unplanned pregnancy and risk of peripartum depression: a prospective cohort study in Saudi pregnant women attending antenatal care clinic

Background: Few studies have been conducted on unintended pregnancies and peripartum depression in Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between unplanned pregnancies and peripartum depression among pregnant women in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Methods: This prospective cohort study included pregnant women attending an antenatal care clinic in 2021. The London Measure of Unplanned Pregnancy was used to assess the prevalence of unplanned pregnancy, and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was used to assess antenatal and postnatal depression. Results: A total of 236 participants were included, of which 25.8% had unplanned pregnancies, 36.0% had ambivalent pregnancies, and 38.1% had planned pregnancies. EPDS results revealed that 77.5% and 73.35% of the females were negative for antenatal and postnatal depression, respectively. A history of stressful events (P=0.001), husband (P=0.020), and family support (P=0.007) was significantly associated with antenatal EPDS score, whereas age (P=0.005), type of delivery (P=0.019), and family support (P=0.031) were significantly associated with the postnatal score. Conclusion: Unplanned pregnancies may affect the perinatal mental health of women. We demonstrated the importance of family or husbands’ support for women with perinatal depression. In addition, our research showed that pregnancy at an early age is a risk factor for postnatal depression. Therefore, these women should be closely monitored not only during their pregnancy but also during the first postpartum year.

The prevalence of postnatal depression and associated factors among clinic attendees in Maseru, Lesotho

The purpose of the study was to screen for postnatal depression (PND) symptoms among women attending primary health care (PHC) facilities within Maseru City Council in Lesotho. The Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale (EPNDS) was used to screen for PND symptoms in a sample of 393 postnatal mothers, and a quantitative questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic data. The Pearson chi-test of association was used to explore associations between socio-demographic variables and EPND scores (p<0.05). The ages of the participants ranged from 17 to 40, with a mean of 27 years. Most were married (n = 310, 78.88%) and unemployed (n = 254, 64.63%), with high school as their highest level of education (n = 272, 69.21%). The majority (n = 312, 79.6%) had between 1 and 2 children. A third of the sample were HIV positive (n = 117, 29.77%). The prevalence of PND symptoms was 43%. Social support, financial support from the partner, relationships with the partner, knowledge of HIV status, and having experienced a severe financial crisis were significantly associated with PND symptoms. On multivariate logistic regression, only financial support from a partner and having experienced a severe financial crisis remained significantly associated with the development of PND (p = 0.05). Risk factors for PND are mostly socio-economic. The high prevalence of PND highlighted the need to integrate routine screening of mothers for PND, which will enable early diagnosis and treatment and thus contribute to the improvement of maternal and child well-being in the country.

The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on postnatal depression: analysis of three population-based national maternity surveys in England (2014-2020).

Few studies have evaluated postnatal depression before and during the Covid-19 pandemic using comparable data across time. We used data from three national maternity surveys in England to compare prevalence and risk factors for postnatal depression before and during the pandemic. Analysis was conducted using population-based surveys carried out in 2014 (n=4571), 2018 (n=4509), and 2020 (n=4611). Weighted prevalence estimates for postnatal depression (EPDS score ≥13) were compared across surveys. Modified Poisson regression was used to estimate adjusted risk ratios (aRR) for the association between sociodemographic, pregnancy- and birth-related, and biopsychosocial factors, and postnatal depression. Prevalence of postnatal depression increased from 10.3% in 2014 to 16.0% in 2018 (difference=+5.7% (95% CI: 4.0-7.4); RR=1.55 (95% CI: 1.36-1.77)) and to 23.9% in 2020 (difference=+7.9% (95% CI: 5.9-9.9); RR=1.49 (95% CI: 1.34-1.66)). Having a long-term mental health problem (aRR range=1.48-2.02), antenatal anxiety (aRR range=1.73-2.12) and antenatal depression (aRR range=1.44-2.24) were associated with increased risk of postnatal depression, whereas satisfaction with birth (aRR range=0.89-0.92) and social support (aRR range=0.73-0.78) were associated with decreased risk before and during the pandemic. This analysis indicates that Covid-19 had an important negative impact on postnatal women's mental health and may have accelerated an existing trend of increasing prevalence of postnatal depression. Risk factors for postnatal depression were consistent before and during the pandemic. Timely identification, intervention and follow-up are key to supporting women at risk, and it is essential that mechanisms to support women are strengthened during times of heightened risk such as the pandemic. NIHR Policy Research Programme.

An economic evaluation of targeted case-finding strategies for identifying postnatal depression: A model-based analysis comparing common case-finding instruments

BackgroundHalf of women with postnatal depression (PND) are not identified in routine care. We aimed to estimate the cost-effectiveness of PND case-finding in women with risk factors for PND. MethodsA decision tree was developed to represent the one-year costs and health outcomes associated with case-finding and treatment for PND. The sensitivity and specificity of case-finding instruments, and prevalence and severity of PND, for women with ≥1 PND risk factor were estimated from a cohort of postnatal women. Risk factors were history of anxiety/depression, age < 20 years, and adverse life events. Other model parameters were derived from published literature and expert consultation. Case-finding for high-risk women only was compared with no case-finding and universal case-finding. ResultsMore than half of the cohort had one or more PND risk factor (57.8 %; 95 % CI 52.7 %–62.7 %). The most cost-effective case-finding strategy was the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale with a cut-off of ≥10 (EPDS-10). Among high-risk women, there is a high probability that EPDS-10 case-finding for PND is cost-effective compared to no case-finding (78.5 % at a threshold of £20,000/QALY), with an ICER of £8146/QALY gained. Universal case-finding is even more cost-effective at £2945/QALY gained (versus no case-finding). There is a greater health improvement with universal rather than targeted case-finding. LimitationsThe model includes costs and health benefits for mothers in the first year postpartum, the broader (e.g. families, societal) and long-term impacts are also important. ConclusionsUniversal PND case-finding is more cost-effective than targeted case-finding which itself is more cost-effective than not case-finding.

Risk factors of paternal postnatal depression in Pakistan: Findings from an urban sample.

Paternal postnatal depression is an emerging public health concern, with negative outcomes for men, their partners, and the newborn. There is a dearth of data on paternal postnatal depression in lower‐middle‐income countries like Pakistan. This study aimed to identify risk factors of postnatal depression in Pakistani men. Men who consented to this cross‐sectional study completed a questionnaire that included sociodemographic information and Urdu translated versions of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, 10–12 weeks postpartum. Descriptive analyses for the sociodemographic variables were calculated. Univariate analyses were conducted to calculate the relative risk and 95% confidence interval of the independent variables with an EPDS score of >10. Multivariate binary logistic regression models were performed for risk factors of paternal postnatal depression. Fifty‐one questionnaires were analyzed and 23.5% of the participants scored more than 10 on the EPDS. Spouse's EPDS score > 12, and own sleep disturbance were risk factors of paternal postnatal depression in Pakistani men. There is an imminent need to incorporate fathers in the existing and future perinatal mental health programs in Pakistan.

The relationship between social support in pregnancy and postnatal depression

PurposeLack of social support is considered a potential risk factor for postnatal depression but limited longitudinal evidence is available. Pregnancy, when women have increased contact with healthcare services, may be an opportune time to intervene and help strengthen women’s social networks to prevent feelings of depression postnatally, particularly for those at greatest risk. Our study examined the longitudinal relationship between social support in pregnancy and postnatal depression, and whether this is moderated by age or relationship status.MethodsWe analysed data collected from 525 women from a diverse inner-city maternity population in England who were interviewed in pregnancy and again three months postnatally. Women provided sociodemographic information and completed self-report measures of depression (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale) and social support (Social Provisions Scale).ResultsLess social support in pregnancy was associated with postnatal depression, after adjusting for sociodemographic confounders and antenatal depression (Coef. = − 0.05; 95% CI − 0.10 to − 0.01; p = 0.02). There was weak evidence of a moderating effect of relationship status. Subgroup analysis showed a stronger relationship between social support in pregnancy and postnatal depression for women who were not living with a partner (Coef. = − 0.11; 95% CI − 0.21 to − 0.01; p = 0.03) than for those who were (Coef. = − 0.03; 95% CI − 0.09 to 0.02; p = 0.28). Sensitivity analysis using multiple imputations to account for missing data confirmed the main results.ConclusionsInterventions that target social support in pregnancy have the potential to reduce depression postnatally. Future research should explore in greater detail which women would benefit most from which type of social support.

Risk Factors of Postnatal Depression and Potency of the Distress and Impact Thermometer in the Perinatal Period:

Risk Factors of Postnatal Depression and Potency of the Distress and Impact Thermometer in the Perinatal Period:

Covid-19 pandemic and postnatal depression, risk factors for postnatal depression

Objective: To evaluate the effects of Covid-19 pandemic on mental health of women in the perinatal period, with an accent on the intensity of depressive symptomatology, and explore the relationship between the specific aspects of Covid-19 pandemic and the registered risk factors for perinatal depression in women. Methods: The study sample consisted of 54 patients, with heterogeneous demographic characteristics (age, marital status, educational background, socio[1]economic status and religious affiliation) selected from the Cabinet for women with perinatal mental health issues at the University Clinic for Psychiatry in Skopje, where they were treated in the period from January 2020 until December 2021 The included patients met the criteria for the diagnosis F.32 during pregnancy, or F32.01/F32.02 postpartum depression in compliance to the ICD 10, and were treated accordingly with a combined approach using psychological interventions and psychopharmaceutic treatment encompassing antidepressant, anxiolytic, antipsychotic, mood stabilizing drugs or a combination of the above mentioned. The inclusion criteria mandated that they were pregnant or had a child in the past two years. The participants could have been subjected to inpatient, or outpatient treatment, or a combination of both modalities during this time. In order to minimize the risk of infection during pandemic times, and protect the health of participants and researchers, the interviews were conducted via telephone beginning with obtaining an informed consent for participation in the study from the patients who were primarily informed in detail about the aims of the study, their rights and protection of their data and anonymity. We used the following methodology: - A structured, non-standardized socio-demographic questionnaire including 11 items regarding age, parity, realized pregnancies, course of pregnancy and delivery, type of treatment, pharmacological therapy, marital status, socio-economic status, educational background, religious affiliation and presence of previously established risk factors in the world literature; - A structured, non-standardized questionnaire regarding the effects of Covid-19 pandemic consisting of 11 questions; - Edinburgh Depression Perinatal Scale (EDPS) This is a 10-questions self-reported scale, which proved to be a valuable and efficient tool for screening perinatal depression. Namely, a presence of clinical depression was registered in 17.2% of the included participants using the EDPS, the percentage of perinatal depression before the COVID-19 pandemic ranged between 10-14% and has been presented in the literature. Of these, 37.8% were registered in Spain, and 40.7% in Canada [3]. Results: The statistical analysis of data from the structured non-standardized questionnaire for the effects of Covid-19 pandemic showed no statistical significance in the subjectively reported effects from the pandemic on participants’ mental health based on the question from the structured non-standardized Covid-19 questionnaire “Do you feel that the Covid-19 pandemic had an effect on your mental health prior or after the childbirth?” where 55.6% answered with “Yes” and 44.4% with “No”. In spite of this, we gained a perspective of the prevailing risk factors in this population and the correlational analysis of data from the questionnaires granted us insights into further investigation of the relationship between the co-variables.

Effect of Perceived Social Support on Postnatal Depression in Females with Cesarean Section and Normal Vaginal Delivery

Objectives: To assess the association of perceived social support with postnatal depression among puerperal women of Faisalabad, Pakistan.&#x0D; Methods: It was a case-control study carried out during a period of 18 months (1-1-2019 to 30-06-2020). By using purposive sampling technique 284 postpartum women were enrolled from Allied hospital and Children hospital Faisalabad. The postnatal depression was diagnosed with Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS).The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) was used to measure the social support that was perceived by women.&#x0D; Results: According to cut-off score ≥13 on EPDS 37.3% women were found depressed while 62.7% women were found non-depressed. The mean EPDS score ± SD was 10.12 ± 6.27 (min score 0; max score 27). The perceived social support from significant other, family and friends was found as significant predictor of postnatal depression. With one-point increase in global perceived social support, the postnatal depression decreased by 0.1 points on EPDS scale (p = 0.03) among women in normal vaginal delivery group, by 0.2 points in cesarean section group (p &lt;0.001) and the postnatal depression decreased by 0.2 points in total sample (p &lt; 0.001).&#x0D; Conclusion: A poor perceived social support from significant other, family and friends is a significant risk factor for postnatal depression among puerperal women.

Key stakeholder perspectives on the development and real-world implementation of a home-based physical activity program for mothers at risk of postnatal depression: a qualitative study

BackgroundPhysical activity (PA) is a modifiable risk factor for postnatal depression (PND) and programs are needed to enhance PA amongst women at risk of PND. Key stakeholder involvement in informing development and implementation of such programs is vital. However, little research demonstrates key stakeholder insights to inform the design and delivery of PA programs for improving PND. The aim of this study was to explore key stakeholder perspectives on the design and delivery of a home-based PA program for mothers with PND symptoms to inform future real-world implementation and scale-up.MethodsA descriptive qualitative study was undertaken whereby semi-structured interviews were conducted with representatives from various key stakeholder organisations involved in postnatal PA and/or mental health, public health and policy in Australia (n = 11). Interviews were conducted between September to November 2019 and explored stakeholder perceptions on the design and delivery of a home-based PA program for mothers with PND symptoms. The interview schedule was informed by both the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and the PRACTical planning for Implementation and Scale-up (PRACTIS) guide. Data were analysed thematically using both deductive and inductive coding.ResultsThe relative priority of PND and PA was high for most organisations involved, although none implemented PA programs supporting women at risk of PND. Most stakeholders perceived the program as appealing due to addressing barriers to postnatal PA, although identified some feasibility issues regarding funding and delivery mechanisms. Suggestions for program adaptations included an equity focus (e.g. providing socioeconomically disadvantaged women with a greater program dose; translating web-app based content into various languages). Planned components of the program were suggested to align (i.e. relative advantage) with existing initiatives (e.g. equipment hire for nurseries scheme) and screening systems for PND (timing of referral). Perceived barriers to scale-up included logistics/cost of equipment, organisational capacity demands and safety risks/liability. Perceived enablers to scale-up included linking the program with ‘adjunct’ programs and services.ConclusionsWhile the program was appealing and most organisations could see a role in endorsing and/or referring to the program, funding and delivery mechanisms still need to be identified.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Postnatal Depression in Females with Cesarean Section and Normal Vaginal Delivery

Objectives: To find the prevalence and risk factors of postnatal depression and association of parenting sense of competence with postnatal depression among females with cesarean section and normal vaginal delivery.&#x0D; Methods: This case-control study was conducted in Allied hospital and Children hospital Faisalabad during a period of 1-1-2019 to 30-06-2020. A non-probability purposive sampling technique was used to enroll 284 women. The Urdu version of Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale was used to measure postnatal depression.&#x0D; Results: The mean age (in years) ± SD was 27.39±5.26 (min 18 years, max 45 years). According to cut-off score ≥13 on EPDS 37.3% women were found depressed while 62.7% women were found non-depressed. The mean EPDS score ± SD was 10.12 ± 6.27 (min score 0; max score 27). The women’s age, women’s education, education of head of family, monthly income of family and socio-economic status, mode of delivery, delivery place, number of pregnancies, history of infant death, history of child death, history of miscarriage and number of living children and parenting sense of competence were significantly associated with postnatal depression (p&lt;0.05).&#x0D; Conclusion: Socio-demographic, obstetric risk factors, and parenting sense of competence are significant predictors of postnatal depression that need to be addressed in order to sustain safe motherhood.

Clinical and Obstetric Risk Factors for Postnatal Depression in HIV Positive Women: A Cross Sectional Study in Health Facilities in Rural KwaZulu-Natal.

Postnatal depression (PND) remains underdiagnosed and undertreated in different socio-economic backgrounds in South Africa. This study determined the prevalence of and clinical and obstetric risk factors for PND symptoms among HIV positive women in health facilities in a rural health district in South Africa. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was used to measure PND from 386 women who had delivered a live infant. More than half (58.5%) tested HIV positive during the current pregnancy. The prevalence of PND symptoms was 42.5%. Logistic regression analysis yielded significant associations between clinical and obstetric variables of pre-term baby (p-value < 0.01), baby health status p-value < 0.01), baby hospitalization, (p-value < 0.01), and knowing the baby’s HIV status (p-value = 0.047). Maternal variables associated with PND were level of education (p-value < 0.01), monthly income (p-value < 0.01), and source of income (p-value = 0.05). At multivariate analysis, none of the clinical and obstetrical risk factors were independently associated with the PND. The high prevalence of PND symptoms underscore the need to integrate routine screening for PND in prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV programmes to enable early diagnosing and treatment of PND.

Affiliation of Postpartum Depression with Mode of Delivery; A Disregarded Domain

Background: Postpartum Depression is a serious issue that can lead to irreversible disasters if not timely recognized and diagnosed. There are various modes of delivery; which may contribute towards physical and mental trauma. Methods: It was a prospective descriptive cross- sectional study carried out to evaluate the alliance of postnatal depression with different modes of delivery i.e. vaginal or lower segment caesarean section. The study was conducted at Ziauddin University Hospital. A sample size of 200 was taken. It was carried out from June 2019 to December 2019. A Performa was designed that questioned about different socio-demographic characteristics and risk factors for post-natal depression (PND). Edinburg Post-Natal Depression Scale (EPNDS) was used for authenticated identification of women with depression in purpeurium. Results: Out of the total sample of 200 women, 100 were taken from the spontaneous vaginal delivery group and 100 from cesarean section group. Mean age was 21-34 years. It was noticed that 60% women who underwent cesarean section became a victim of depression and 40% women who had a normal vaginal delivery were identified to have post natal depression. Conclusion: The study identifies cesarean section to be one of the culprits of postnatal depression as compared to woman undergoing spontaneous vaginal delivery. There is an exponential rise in the frequency of performing unexplained cesarean sections that would also boost up the graphs of postnatal depression; hence there is a dire need to instruct women to follow up postnatal so that they can be evaluated for post partum depression.

A selective D2 dopamine receptor agonist alleviates depression through up-regulation of tyrosine hydroxylase and increased neurogenesis in hippocampus of the prenatally stressed rats

Prenatal stress (PNS) has its negative impact on both the infant hippocampal neurogenesis and pregnancy outcomes in the neonates that serves as a risk factor for postnatal depression in adult offsprings. Therefore, main objectives of the present study were to evaluate the effect of maternal chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) on behavioural changes, levels of oxidative stress, changes in selective developmental signaling genes and neurogenesis in the adult brain of Wistar rats and its reversal through a selective non-ergoline D2 type dopamine receptor (D2R) agonist Ropinirole (ROPI). Effects of ROPI treatment on CUMS induced adult rats offspring were measured by assessment of behavioural tests (sucrose preference test and forced swim test), biomarkers of oxidative stress, protein expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), mRNA expression of SHH, GSK-3β, β-catenin, Notch, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), Dopamine receptor 2 (Drd2) and bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) cell proliferation assay. The oxidative stress, protein and mRNA expression were determined in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex while the BrdU cell proliferation was observed in the hippocampus of rat brain. PNS induced changes resulted in depression validated by the depression-like behaviours, increased oxidative stress, decreased TH expression, altered expression of selective developmental genes, along with the reduced hippocampal neurogenesis and BDNF expression in the brain of adult offsprings. Chronic ROPI treatment reversed those effects and was equally effective like Imipramine (IMI) treatment. So, the present study suggested that ROPI can be used as an antidepressant drug for the treatment of depressive disorders.

Development of a Psychological Intervention to Address Anxiety During Pregnancy in a Low-Income Country.

Background: One in five women suffer from anxiety during pregnancy. Untreated anxiety is a risk factor for postnatal depression and is associated with adverse birth outcomes. Despite the high prevalence of prenatal anxiety in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), efforts to develop and evaluate context-specific interventions in these settings are lacking. We aimed to develop a culturally appropriate, feasible, and acceptable psychological intervention for perinatal anxiety in the context of a low-income population in Pakistan. Methods: We conducted this research in Rawalpindi District at the Obstetrics Department of the Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi Medical University a government facility catering to a mixture of low-income urban, peri-urban, and rural populations. We used a mixture of research methods to: a) investigate the clinical, cultural, and health-service delivery context of perinatal anxiety; b) select an evidence-based approach that suited the population and health-delivery system; c) develop an intervention with extensive reference documentation/manuals; and d) examine issues involved in its implementation. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, and analyzed using framework analysis. Results: Informed by the qualitative findings and review of existing evidence-based practices, we developed the “Happy Mother, Healthy Baby” intervention, which was based on principles of cognitive behavior therapy. Its evidence-based elements included: developing an empathetic relationship, challenging thoughts, behavior activation, problem solving, and involving family. These elements were applied using a three-step approach: 1) learning to identify unhealthy or unhelpful thinking and behavior; 2) learning to replace unhealthy or unhelpful thinking and behavior with helpful thinking and behavior; and 3) practicing thinking and acting healthy. Delivered by non-specialist providers, the intervention used culturally appropriate illustrations and examples of healthy activities to set tasks in collaboration with the women to encourage engagement in helpful behaviors. Feedback from the non-specialist providers indicated that the intervention was acceptable, feasible, and perceived to be helpful by the women receiving it. Conclusion: This new psychosocial intervention for perinatal anxiety, based on principles of cognitive behavior therapy and delivered by non-specialists, has the potential to address this important but neglected condition in LMICs.

The burden and risk factors for postnatal depression and depressive symptomatology among women in Kampala.

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a major global health challenge and postnatal women may be at an increased risk for this disorder. Very few studies have tested this hypothesis in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), so it is uncertain whether risk factors implicated elsewhere in the world are relevant in SSA. We explored prevalence and risk factors for MDD and depressive symptomatology among postnatal mothers in Kampala. Three hundred postnatal mothers at Nsambya Hospital were assessed for MDD using the DSM IV-based MINI; prevalence and risk factors were determined using frequencies and regressions, respectively. Four women (1.33%) had MDD; however, 94 (31%) had 'sub-threshold' or depressive symptomatology, with which partner violence is particularly associated. MDD is rare among postnatal women in a paying hospital in Kampala; however, the high prevalence of depressive symptomatology suggests susceptibility to MDD. Longitudinal studies should investigate this hypothesis and the susceptibility due to partner violence should guide appropriate interventions.

Prevalence and Associated risk Factors of Postnatal Depression in South Asian region—A Systematic review

Background: Postnatal depression is an important complication of child-bearing and can have long-term adverse consequences for both mother and child. Objective: To estimate the prevalence and identify the associated factors of postnatal depression in South Asian region. Method: Observational cohorts and surveys were searched in Medline, Cinhal, ProQuest, and Scopus databases from 2005 to 2016. Original articles published in English language were included in the study. Results: of 324 articles, 28 studies (15,345 samples) were eligible for analysis. The overall prevalence rate of depression during postnatal period was 26% (0.21, 0.30 CI). Risk factors for postnatal depression were grouped under following categories: demographic, psychological, social, obstetric and infant. Conclusion: Health care professionals should screen the women for possible risk factors and depressive symptoms during perinatal period so that suitable interventions can be initiated if required in a timely fashion.

Factors associated with postnatal depression among primi mothers

Introduction: Postnatal depression poses a heavy burden to the society because of its significant impact on the health of the baby, mother, and its negative effect on the family. During the postnatal period, the emotional status and social support of women has to be assessed. The present study aimed at identifying the factors associated with postnatal depression. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in two hospitals in Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, Kerala. Primi mothers (n = 610) at 6 weeks after delivery attending the immunization clinic were included in the study. Consecutive sampling technique was used. The research tool used were sociodemographic data sheet, life events inventory, questionnaire on social support, and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Results: The proportion of postnatal depression among the primi mothers was 9.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 7.2–11.8). The factors associated with postnatal depression among primi mothers included alcoholism of husband (OR 3.01; 95% CI, 1.1–8.24), unplanned pregnancy (OR 2.32; 95% CI, 1.16–4.64), conflict with parents (OR 4.19; 95% CI, 0.9–19.63), conflict with in-laws (OR 5.16; 95% CI, 1.01–26.23), and lack of support from husband (OR 3.33; 95% CI, 1.26–8.81), mother (OR 15.02; 95% CI, 5.66–39.87), mother-in-law (OR 2.38; 95% CI, 1.06–5.34), and friends and neighbors (OR 2.01; 95%CI, 1–4.04). Conclusion: Health professionals at the periphery level of health care should be educated about the risk factors of postnatal depression.

Risk Factors for Postnatal Depression among Primipara Mothers.

In recent years postnatal depression (PND) has become one of the most important public health issues because of its prevalence. Estimates for those affected by PND suggest a range of 10-15% of new mothers worldwide. In the context of Saudi society, attitudes toward this disorder are influenced by various beliefs, traditions, cultural factors, and values. These variables trigger considerable disparity in terms of frequency of symptoms. The symptoms of postnatal depression vary and can arise over a period of months, causing profound effects on mothers, also effecting mother-baby and broader familial relationships. The current study establishes the rate of occurrence and risk factors for PND in the western region of Saudi Arabia, to build on existing data. In total, 217 new Saudi mothers were recruited and data was collected using the Edinburgh Postnatal Scale (EPDS) in conjunction with a self-report questionnaire. Based on recommendations in previous studies, an EPND cut-off point of 13 ≥ was applied herein. Findings show the prevalence of PND, approximately 17.1% among the participants, and contributing factors included a previous history of depression, χ2 = 67.74, df = 1, p &lt; .05, problems with the child's health, χ2 = 31.42, df = 1, p &lt; .05, issues with home support, χ2 = 43.47, df = 1, p &lt; .05, and pregnancy complications, χ2 = 7.19, df = 1, p &lt; .05. Meanwhile, no correlation was found between PND and the baby's gender, delivery type, breastfeeding, mother's age, or mother's educational level. Additional studies are required to confirm these findings, and to identify other risk factors.

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