Predictors of Postpartum Depression: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Postpartum depression is a common yet under-recognized mental health condition affecting women during the early postnatal period, with significant implications for maternal well-being, infant care, and family functioning. Early identification of determinants is essential for timely intervention and prevention of adverse outcomes. The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of postpartum depression among post-partum women from day 0 to 6 weeks and to identify socio-demographic, antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum predictors associated with its occurrence. Material and Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study included 270 post-partum women assessed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Socio-demographic, obstetric, intrapartum, and postnatal variables were analyzed using SPSS version 23, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Postpartum depression was identified in 60 women (22.2%). Higher prevalence was observed among women with lower education, lower socio-economic status, unplanned pregnancy, antenatal complications, anemia, LSCS, labour complications, prolonged labour, breastfeeding difficulties, neonatal illness, and poor social support, all showing statistically significant associations. Conclusion: Postpartum depression is multifactorial, with strong links to socio-economic vulnerability, adverse pregnancy experiences, intrapartum stressors, and inadequate postnatal support. Integrating routine screening with focused obstetric and psychosocial interventions may improve early detection and maternal mental health outcomes.

Keywords: Postpartum depression, EPDS, predictors, intrapartum factors, postnatal period.