Factors associated with postpartum depression among adolescent mothers in Kigamboni municipality, Dar es Salaam: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Postpartum depression(PPD)has been described as “a thief that steals motherhood”. Maternal depression is a major public health concern as it affects both mothers and their children. PPD is often underdiagnosed and has been associated with child abundance, malnutrition and suicidal or suicidal ideation. It is associated with mother-infant bonding impairment, child abuse, child neglect, maternal abuse and self-harm. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of PPD and its associated factors among Adolescent mothers attending postnatal and under-five clinics in a Peri-urban area (Kigamboni) Dar-es-salaam.

Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in two Health Centers located at Kigamboni, Dar es Salaam. A consecutive sampling technique was used to select 380 adolescent mothers accessing postnatal and under-five clinics. A structured questionnaire and review of the ANC card were used to collect information on social demographics and bio-psychosocial factors contributing to PPD.  Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scoring scale with a score of ≥13 was used to assess the level of depression. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 23   where Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify the associated factors with PPD. A p-value of <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results: Forty -four per cent of adolescent mothers were found to have signs of depression. PPD was significantly associated with an unplanned pregnancy (AOR=7.40, 95% CI=3.16 -17.38). On the other hand, being married (AOR=O.92, 95% CI=0.12-0.69); having family support (AOR=0.42, 95% CI=0.22-0.81) and partner support (AOR=0.13, CI=0.28-0.60) had less likelihood of being associated with postpartum depression.

Conclusion: Adolescent mothers attending postnatal services and under-five clinics are at risk of developing PPD. Unplanned pregnancy, unmarried, poor family and partner support are among the identified common risk factors for PPD.   Prevention of adolescent pregnancy by advocating sexual education and family planning in youth-friendly service clinics at every health facility is highly recommended.