Background

Postpartum depression (PPD) is one of the most common mental health disorders affecting women after childbirth. It has profound consequences for maternal well-being, infant development, family functioning, and overall public health. Despite increasing awareness, many cases remain undiagnosed and untreated, particularly in low-resource settings.

Objective

This study evaluates the prevalence of postpartum depression and identifies associated biological, psychological, social, and obstetric risk factors influencing its development among postpartum women.

Methods

A multicenter prospective observational study was conducted among 900 postpartum women attending maternal and child healthcare clinics. Participants were screened using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) within six months postpartum. Sociodemographic, obstetric, psychosocial, and clinical variables were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression.

Results

The prevalence of postpartum depression was 18.9%. Significant risk factors included previous mental health disorders (OR=4.3), lack of social support (OR=3.8), unplanned pregnancy (OR=2.9), financial stress (OR=2.7), obstetric complications (OR=2.4), and sleep disturbances (OR=3.1). Women experiencing postpartum depression reported significantly lower quality of life and impaired maternal-infant bonding.

Conclusion

Postpartum depression is a major public health concern with multifactorial causes. Early screening, psychosocial support, mental health interventions, and integrated maternal healthcare services are essential for improving maternal and child outcomes.