Prevalence and related factors of postpartum depression

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of postpartum depression among women and determine which factors are related this clinical condition. Methods The study included 206 women who were admitted to the department of child health and diseases neonatal intensive care unit in Selcuk university faculty of medicine within six weeks postpartum period. First SCID-I and demographic data form for the participants who were volunteer to participate the study were filled. Then, Edinburgh postpartum depression scale, multidimensional scale of perceived social support, Beck anxiety inventory and maternal bonding scale were applied to all participants. Results We found that 6.8% ( n  = 14) of mothers have postpartum depression. Than we compared the two grups postpartum depression (PPD) and non-postpartum depression (NPPD). In terms of socio-demographic characteristics and found a significant difference only in the level of economic status. Socio-economic status was lower in the group with PPD. In addition, social support received during pregnancy was significantly lower in the group with the PPD. Peripartum or any time depression history and comorbid psychiatric disorders were related factors with PPD. EPDS scores were significantly higher and MSPSS scores were significantly lower in the group with PPD. Conclusion Postpartum depression has many negative consequences for both mother and baby. In the present study, we found that postpartum depression rates were consistent with previous studies. Early detection, prevention and treatment of postpartum depression is very important for the postpartum women who have a higher risk for depression.