PREVALENCE AND EVALUATION OF FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TOWARDS POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy and childbirth cause various physiological, psychological, and social changes. Postpartum
depression (PPD) is a prevalent issue, representing a significant public health challenge that affects mothers, their
children, and families. Research indicates that many mothers with young infants experience depressive symptoms,
with 10-15% experiencing major depressive episodes.
Aims and Objectives: To study the prevalence and factors contributing to postpartum depression.
Materials and Methods: This study included married women aged 18-35 years who delivered between June 1,
2023, and January 1, 2024, at Index Medical College and Hospital's antenatal and postnatal outpatient department
(OPD). Women were approached during their third trimester and postpartum period. Exclusion criteria included preexisting conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, physical and psychiatric illnesses, multiple gestations, and
previous perinatal loss. PPD was evaluated using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), with a score of
13 or higher indicating PPD. The research questionnaire was translated into the local language, and data were
collected. Statistical analysis included univariate and multivariate methods using Fisher's exact test or the Chisquare test.