Original scientific paper
Prevalence and Risk Factors for Postpartum Depression: A Cross-Sectional Study
Karmen Sovulj
; Zagreb-Centar Health Center Zagreb, Croatia
Ana Šeremet
; University Department of Psychology Catholic University of Croatia Ilica 242, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
*
Marta Čivljak
orcid.org/0000-0001-6211-0174
; University Department of Nursing Catholic University of Croatia Zagreb, Croatia
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Background: One of the most important health problems affecting the mother and child is postpartum depression (PPD). This study aimed to determine the frequency and risk factors that contribute to PPD in order to help identify those at high risk and implement preventive measures. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study in Zagreb, Croatia, from November 2022 to April 2023 on a convenient sample of mothers (N=195) with children up to six months of age, using the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Questionnaire and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. The data were collected during home visits by visiting nurses or meetings of the Vita breastfeeding support group. Results: Symptoms of PPD of varying intensity were present in 43 (22.05%) of the participants. It was found that the mothers with previous mental disorders (χ2=6.85, P=.01) and those less satisfi ed with their partners’ support (χ2=18.93, P=.00) had more depressive symptoms than those who did not have previous mental disorders and were satisfi ed with their partners’ support. Also, it was found that mothers with depressive symptoms had a lower level of support from their signifi cant others (t=3.96, P<.01), family (t=3.64, P<.01) and friends (t=3.39, P<.01) than mothers without such symptoms. Conclusion: The prevalence of PPD in the sample was high, and it was shown that the following risk factors infl uenced its occurrence: previous mental disorders, dissatisfaction with emotional support from the partner, and a lower level of social support from signifi cant others, family and friends. It is important to raise awareness of this problem and recognize the symptoms in time, which could facilitate the implementation of appropriate preventive measures and the provision of appropriate therapy.
Keywords
postpartum depression; risk factors; prevalence; emotional support; social support
Hrčak ID:
334380
URI
Publication date:
2.6.2024.
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