Prevalence of postpartum depression in a Moroccan sample

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant global health concern affecting mothers' well-being.
• Limited data exists on PPD prevalence and associated factors in North African populations, specifically Morocco.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of postpartum depression among Moroccan mothers.
• To identify factors associated with postpartum depression in this population.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of postnatal visits in identifying PPD.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal study interviewed 144 Moroccan mothers at 2 and 6 weeks, and 6 and 9 months postpartum.
• The Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.) was used for DSM-IV diagnosis.
• The Arabic version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was employed, with a cut-off score of 12 demonstrating high sensitivity (92%) and specificity (96%).

Main Results:

• The prevalence of depressive disorder was 18.7% in the second week postpartum using the M.I.N.I.
• Significant associations were found between PPD and pregnancy complications, stressful life events, infant health problems, and poor marital relationships.
• Subsequent point prevalences were 6.9% (6 weeks), 11.8% (6 months), and 5.6% (9 months).

Conclusions:

• Postpartum depression is prevalent among Moroccan mothers, particularly in the early weeks after childbirth.
• Pregnancy complications, life stressors, baby's health, and marital discord are key associated factors.
• Postnatal visits are a valuable tool for identifying Moroccan mothers experiencing postpartum depression.