Prevalence and Associated Factors of Postpartum Depression Among Postpartum Mothers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious mental illness that affects behavior, physical health, and overall well-being, posing serious risks to the health of both mother and child. The World Health Organization reports that around 10% of women during pregnancy and 13% after childbirth globally suffer from mental health conditions, with depression being the most common. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of postpartum depression among postpartum mothers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods: An analytic cross-sectional study was conducted among 530 postpartum mothers from February to August 2022. Three sub-cities (Lideta, Cherkos, and Nifas Silk) were selected using a simple random sampling technique from the 10 sub-cities in Addis Ababa. Seven health centers were chosen by lottery method, and participants were selected through systematic random sampling. Binary logistic regression was employed for data analysis, and variables showing a p-value less than 0.05 were deemed statistically significant. Results: A total of 530 individuals took part in this study. Among them, postpartum depression was identified in 22.3% (118 participants). Several factors showed significant associations with postpartum depression, including maternal age between 19–24 years (II = 0.51; 95% CI: 0.004, 0.73), lack of formal education (AOR = 10.65; 95% CI: 1.91, 59.51), secondary education level (AOR = 1.123; 95% CI: 0.020, 2.76), unemployment (AOR = 0.322; 95% CI: 0.121, 0.855), monthly income of 2001–6000 ETB (AOR = 1.002; 95% CI: 0.000, 2.015), and unplanned pregnancy (AOR = 9.96; 95% CI: 4.49, 17.29). Conclusion: The occurrence of depression among postpartum mothers is high, with significant associations found with age, education level, employment status, income, and pregnancy planning. Early screening and targeted interventions, particularly for high-risk groups such as older mothers, those with low education, and those with unplanned pregnancies, are essential to address this public health issue.