Prevalence of Postpartum Depression among Recently-Delivered Mothers in Selected Tertiary Hospitals, Osun State, Nigeria (Published)
Depression remains a leading global psychiatric concern, with postpartum depression (PPD) affecting a significant number of women in the immediate postnatal period. This study investigated the prevalence and associated socio-demographic factors of PPD among recently-delivered mothers at two tertiary healthcare facilities in Osun State, Nigeria – University of Teaching Hospital (UTH) and Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC). A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted. A total of 196 postnatal women were recruited using proportionate and convenient sampling based on delivery records from both hospitals. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising socio-demographic variables and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). The instrument’s reliability was confirmed through a pilot test (Cronbach’s alpha), and its validity was assessed by mental health and nursing experts. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25, employing descriptive and inferential statistics, including chi-square. Findings revealed that 66.8% of respondents exhibited mild symptoms of PPD, while 33.2% showed severe symptoms, indicating a high prevalence. Significant associations were found between PPD and socio-demographic variables such as age, residential area, family type, education, occupation, and income (p < 0.05). Younger mothers (20–29 years), those in monogamous families, with tertiary education, and stable income demonstrated lower PPD prevalence. The study concludes that PPD is notably prevalent among postpartum women in tertiary care settings. It recommends routine mental health screening during prenatal and postnatal visits, early diagnosis, and integration of mental health into maternal health policies. Collaborative postnatal follow-up guidelines focusing on mental health are essential to improve outcomes.
Keywords: Prevalence, Socio- Demographic Factors, postnatal women, postpartum depression (PPD)