Knowledge, Attitude and Prevalence of Postpartum Depression among Mothers Attending Immunization Clinics in Osogbo Local Government, Osun State

Abstract

Postpartum depression is one of the most common complications that occurs in mothers which has negative effects on the babies whose mothers were affected. The study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitude and prevalence of postpartum depression. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was adopted for this study. A multistage sampling technique was used to enroll 250 nursing mothers from the total population using 8 health facilities in the location. Data was collected using a pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire which included a standardized tool (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale). Analysis was carried out using IBM SPSS V21.0. Frequency, chi-square and binary logistic regression analysis were used to give statistical responses and associations between the variables. The result of the analysis showed that the prevalence of postpartum depression was 33.6%. Majority (60%) of the respondents had fair knowledge of postpartum depression. More than half (52.4%) of the respondents had a moderate attitude towards postpartum depression. There was no statistically significant association between knowledge, attitude towards postpartum depression and prevalence of postpartum depression. There was a significant association between previous history of postpartum depression, occupation of the spouse and the prevalence of postpartum depression. Postpartum depression is known to be a major public health concern for women of reproductive age. The study revealed a high prevalence rate of postpartum depression, it therefore recommended that the government should implement policies and also programs that would promote awareness and early recognition of postpartum depression.