Prevalence and Risk Factors of Postpartum Depression in Yaounde, Cameroon

Abstract

Introduction: Postpartum Depression is one of the commonest complications of the postpartum period. In Cameroon, little is known about this condition. Our objective was to determine the prevalence and identify the risk factors for postpartum depression. Methodology: The study was carried out at the Yaoundé Gyneco-Obstetric and Pediatric Hospital, from November 4th 2013 to April 4th 2014. All the women between the 4th and 6th week after birth who gave their consent were included. A pretested questionnaire including demographic, psychosocial, maternal and infant variables as well as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was filled. A woman with an EPDS score ≥12 was considered having postpartum depression, while a score < 12 ruled out a postpartum depression. Results: We recruited 214 women, among whom 50 had an EPDS score ≥ 12, giving a prevalence of 23.4% of postpartum depression. After multivariate analysis, the risk factors of postpartum depression were: lack of satisfaction in the marital relationship, recent financial problems, recent conflicts with the partner, baby blues, difficulties in feeding the baby and problems with the baby's sleep. Conclusion: Postpartum depression is common and associated to specific risk factors in our setting.

Factors affecting the occurrence of postpartum depression among puerperal women in Sohag city, Egypt

“…This finding was in contrast to a study by Adama et al, 2015 which confirmed that the same factor not considered as co-factor for PPD due to a non-significant relationship between type of childbirth and PPD. 26 Our study confirmed the idea that the level of education is a contributing factor for postpartum depression taking into consideration that the PPD prevalence is highest in highly educated women that might be related to their life style and involvement in different works and jobs. Our finding contradicts Mohammed et al, 2014 10 and Zagade & Deshpande, 2013 24 studies in which they observed that the prevalence of PPD among high school educated mothers was more than other educational levels.…”

Prevalence of postpartum depression and associated factors among postnatal care attendees in Debre Berhan, Ethiopia, 2018.

“…In the social support dimension, respondents who had poor social support were higher in odds to be depressed than those who had strong social support. The association in estimation was in line with studies done in Malaysian and Pakistan (24), Cameron; Yaoundé (28) and Hiwot Fana specialized University Hospital in Ethiopia (11). In fact, having poor social support is one of risk of mental health problems.…”

The Rate and Risk Factors of Pospartum Depression in Sana’a Yemen

“…The association between not attempting breastfeeding and risk of PPD is controversy, Pope CJ et al [17] concluded that breastfeeding status alone may not be a significant risk factor for PPD. However, this study examined the breastfeeding difficulties and found positive association with risk of PPD, similar to another study [10]. It is therefore, suggested that infant's illnesses, prematurity, maternal perception of infant health status together with lack of support, are significant contributors to PPD.…”

“…Fairbrother N, in recent study reported prevalence ranges between 11 -21% [9]. Another study from Africa observed higher incidence as 23.4% [10]. However, there is variability in the prevalence of PPD across different geographical locations and population groups.…”