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Prevalence of prenatal depression and associated factors among HIV-positive women in primary care in Mpumalanga province, South Africa


Karl Peltzer
Violeta J. Rodriguez
Deborah Jones

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the prevalence of depressed symptoms and associated factors in prenatal HIV-positive women in primary care facilities in rural South Africa. In a cross-sectional study, 663 HIV-positive prenatal women in 12 community health centres in Mpumalanga province, South Africa, were recruited by systematic sampling (every consecutive patient after HIV post-test counselling). Results indicate that overall, 48.7% [95% CI: 44.8, 52.6] of women during the prenatal period reported depressed mood (scores of ≥ 13 on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale 10). In multivariate analysis, not being employed, unplanned pregnancy, not having an HIV-positive child, poor antiretroviral therapy adherence, non-condom use at last sex, and intimate partner violence were associated with depressive symptoms. Potential risk factors among HIV-infected prenatal women were identified which could be utilized in interventions. Routine screening for depression may be integrated into prenatal care settings.

Keywords: antenatal care, HIV positive, pregnant women, depressive symptoms, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale 10, South Africa


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eISSN: 1813-4424
print ISSN: 1729-0376