Prevalence and factors associated with postpartum depression among adolescent mothers attending postnatal and under-five clinics in per urban area, Dar es salaam

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