Prevalence of postpartum depression and interventions utilized for its management

Postpartum depression is a mood disorder that affects approximately 10-15% of adult mothers yearly. This study sought to determine the prevalence of postpartum depression and interventions utilized for its management in a Health facility in Ghana.

A descriptive cross-sectional study design using a quantitative approach was used for the study. The study population included mothers and healthcare workers. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 257 mothers, while a convenience sampling technique was used to select 56 health workers for the study. A Patient Health Questionnaire was used to screen for depression and a structured questionnaire comprising closed-ended questions was used to collect primary data on the interventions for the management of postpartum depression. Data were analyzed using statistical software SPSS version 16.0.

Postpartum depression was prevalent among 7% of all mothers selected. The severity ranged from minimal depression to severe depression. Psychosocial support proved to be the most effective intervention (p = 0.001) that has been used by the healthcare workers to reduce depressive symptoms.

Postpartum depression is prevalent among mothers although at a lower rate and psychosocial support has been the most effective intervention in its management. Postpartum depression may affect socialization behaviors in children and the mother, and it may lead to thoughts of failure leading to deeper depression. Frequent screening exercises for postpartum depression should be organized by authorities of the hospitals in conjunction with the Ministry of Health.