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 which is often underdiagnosed has been associated with
child abundance, child malnutrition and suicidal or suicidal ideation. Research has
demonstrated that PPD is associated with mother-infant bonding impairment, child abuse,
child neglect, maternal abuse and self-harm. Globally, the prevalence of PPD among
adolescents varies.
We aimed at determining the prevalence of PPD and its associated risk factors among
Adolescent mothers attending a postnatal and under-five clinic 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 between October 2020 to January 2021. We interviewed 380
adolescent mothers attending postnatal and under-five clinics at Vijibweni and health centers. Information on bio-psychosocial factors contributing to PPD, social
demographic and depression assessment using Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scoring
scale with a score of ≥13 was collected by face-to-face interview. Data were analyzed
using SPSS software version 23. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses
were done to identify factors associated with Postpartum depression. A p-value <0.05 was
considered to be statistically significant.
Results: Forty -four percent of adolescent mothers were having 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); 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: The prevalence of PPD was higher in the study sample. In the light of the
findings, maternal health care providers and the government is cautioned to consider the
mental health of adolescent mothers
