Factors associated with postpartum depression in Chilean women

Ana M Quelopana1, Jane Dimmitt Champion, Teresa Reyes-Rubilar

  • 1College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA. a.quelopana@uky.edu

The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of postpartum depression in a regular clinical setting among Chilean women. The Postpartum Depression Screening Scale, Spanish Version was used to assess symptoms of depression. Chilean women (45%) reported depressive symptoms including suicidal thoughts, sleeping/eating disturbances, and emotional stability. Factors that predicted the probability of PPD included attitudes concerning pregnancy, social support, and tobacco use. Routine screening for PPD could make a difference in prevention, prompt diagnosis, and management of postpartum depression in developing countries.

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