Identifying the factors associated with depressive symptoms among postpartum mothers in Kathmandu, Nepal

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study aimed to identify the factors associated with depressive symptoms among postpartum mothers in Kathmandu, Nepal. METHOD: A hospital-based cross-sectional study that included 346 postpartum mothers at 4-14 weeks after delivery was carried out. Validated Nepalese version of Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale with cut-off value of ≥12 was used to screen depressive symptoms and structured questionnaires were used to identify the associated factors. Possible factors associated with depressive symptoms were identified by logistic regression analysis. RESULT: = 1.504-9.810). CONCLUSIONS: This study aids to draw attention on the incorporation of routine screening for basic support and intervention for identified risk factors in postpartum period. Policies can be formulated to encourage postpartum women to obtain adequate rest during pregnancy, support women with poor partner relationship, reduce marital dissatisfaction, help women adjust with stressful life events, and prevent and manage abortion appropriately. These policies may reduce harmful consequences of postpartum depressive symptoms for women, newborn and their family.