Impact of Postpartum Depression on Family Life of Women in Islamabad, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Postnatal blues, a prevalent condition observed in approximately 15% of women globally, emerges as a significant public health issue impacting both mothers and their families. In Pakistan, postnatal depression is frequently observed in women, with prevalence rates ranging from 28% to 63%, placing the country among the highest in Asia. Objective: To determine the risk factors associated with postpartum depression in women and its broader impacts on affected individuals' families. Methods: A total of 200 postnatal women with postpartum depression and one-year-old toddlers were included in this cross-sectional study through a multiphase selection strategy. The study was conducted in Islamabad, Pakistan. Results: Among postnatal women, the most common risk factors of postpartum depression were due to the difficulties faced by women during delivery and pregnancy (82% extreme depression, 40% mild depression), Gender biasness (81.5% extreme depression, and 40% mild depression) and health concerns of a baby throughout gestation period (81.5%, extreme depressed and 35%, mild depressed) Social stereotype associated with delivery methods and pregnancy(81%, extreme depressed and 40, mild depressed) and lactation difficulties (63%, extreme depressed and 33, mild depressed). Conclusion: After childbirth, the postpartum phase is a crucial period for mothers, and it is frequently underestimated and overlooked, leading to substantial health risks. This timeframe is particularly susceptible to various complications, i.e., a variety of mood disorders like PPD, which is a significant depressive episode that begins within 30 days of birth, and such disorders result in adverse outcomes that affect the mental health of a mother and disturb the entire family life. It is imperative to conduct early evaluations and offer personalized guidance regarding social support and coping strategies to identify and prevent postpartum depression in this particular demographic.