Prevalence of Postpartum Depression in a Tertiary Health Care

Introduction: Postpartum Depression is an important public health problem in developing country like Nepal. Although prevalence of postpartum depression is high in our setting, it is most neglected area of mental health. These have negative consequences not only to mother but also to infant. Data related to postpartum depression in Nepal are limited, research in this particular field will contribute in knowing the gravity of the situation and helps to formulate the factor association to upcoming researchers. This research is done in order to find out the prevalence of postpartum depression. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in Paropakar Maternity and Women's Hospital, among total 348 postnatal mothers who were selected through convenient sampling technique. Validated Nepalese version of Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale was used to screen depressive symptoms. Data was collected after receiving ethical approval letter. Data entry was done using SPSS version 20. Results: Out of total mothers, the prevalence of Postpartum Depression (PPD) was seen among 51 (14.7%) mothers. Conclusions: Postpartum Depression being a common yet neglected area of maternal health in Nepal, should be detected in early stage. As the study showed that about one sixth of mothers had postpartum depression, more focus should be given to maternal mental health.