Prevalence and associated psychological risk factors of postpartum depression: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of postpartum depression and the associated risk factors in a sample of Italian women at three months after delivery. Eighty women were screened by completing the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Women with a score ≥10 were evaluated as positive and other variables were detected through the administration of the Postpartum Depression Predictors Inventory.

The prevalence of postpartum depression in the sample was 11.25% (EPDS score >10). A statistically significant relationship was found between the predisposition to postnatal depression and various risk factors such as prenatal depression, stressful life experiences marital problems. Furthermore, strong emotional and instrumental support from the partner and a good economic status can represent protective factors. It is essential to promote an integrated approach to postpartum affective disorders in which psychosocial risk factors are taken into account, and adequate screening programs are implemented.

Impact Statement

• What is already known on this subject? Pregnancy can cause emotional stress for women with consequent development, in some cases, of mood disorders such as postpartum depression.

• What do the results of this study add? According to this study, women suffering from postpartum depression showed a significant tendency to anxiety and depression, low perceived support from the partner, and low socio-economic status.

• What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? It would be desirable to promote an integrated approach to postpartum affective disorders in which psychosocial risk factors are taken into account and adequate screening programs are implemented.

Keywords:

• Postpartum depression
• pregnancy
• psychology
• prevention
• risk factors

Disclosure statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.