Prevalence and Determinants of Postpartum Depression Among Women Attending a Tertiary Healthcare Facility in Puducherry, India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Postpartum Depression (PPD) is a prevalent non-psychotic condition that may manifest at any point from conception through the postpartum period, most commonly appearing between two and six weeks after delivery but potentially as late as 30 weeks postpartum.

Objective: This research was undertaken to determine the prevalence of PPD among women attending a tertiary care centre in Puducherry and to elucidate the associated risk factors influencing its development.

Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional observational study over one year involving 200 postpartum women presenting to the Obstetrics and Gynecology outpatient department between 2 and 6 weeks postpartum. Participants with cognitive impairments, those unwilling to participate, and women diagnosed with postpartum thyroiditis were excluded. Data collection utilized a pre-validated Tamil version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). The study protocol received approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee, and written informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to enrollment. Confidentiality and anonymity of the data were strictly maintained throughout the study.

Results: The study identified an 8% prevalence rate of postpartum depression. Significant socio-demographic risk factors included the birth of a female child, pregnancy-related complications, exposure to adverse life events, domestic violence, and absence of family support during pregnancy and childbirth.

Conclusion: PPD represents a critical maternal health issue with profound implications for both mother and child. Our findings highlight the necessity for systematic screening programs, particularly focusing on identified high-risk groups, to facilitate early detection and intervention.