Abstract
Background
Postpartum depression (PPD) is common among women worldwide. PPD affects women after giving birth and can impact the relationship between mothers, their babies, and their spouses, and is associated with considerable economic and personal burdens. This study aimed to calculate the prevalence of PPD among women who gave birth at King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and identify significantly correlated variables using a cross-sectional approach.
Methodology
This cross-sectional study included a sample size of 483 mothers from the obstetrics inpatient ward at KAUH, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Participants were selected randomly and interviewed using a questionnaire consisting of two parts. The first part included demographic data and the studied variables, and the second part was the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Patients were followed up for six weeks using the same questionnaire in 354 participants.
Results
Of the 483 postpartum women, 15.1% (n = 73) were more likely to exhibit PPD on day one, with a cutoff of 13 points using the EPDS. A smaller proportion of participants were more likely to exhibit PPD at week six (5.1%, n = 18). This finding suggests a positive improvement in the prevalence of PPD from day one to week six. The most significant predictors identified in the regression analysis were family monthly income and family support (p = 0.001 and 0.003, respectively), which positively impacted prevalence.
Conclusions
The calculated PPD prevalence in this cross-sectional study was high. Because PPD negatively impacts the relationship between a mother and her child, with consequences potentially affecting the entire family, we suggest increasing awareness of PPD and focusing on the most significant modifiable risk factors. In addition, early screening programs and continuous follow-up are recommended to provide early intervention and support, which may decrease the harmful impacts of PPD.