Sociodemographic and psychosocial determinants of perinatal anxiety disorders in a Nigerian primary care population

Abstract

Abstract Background Perinatal anxiety disorders are common yet understudied in low- and middle-income countries, particularly where sociocultural and economic stressors may elevate maternal vulnerability. This study assessed the prevalence and sociodemographic and psychosocial determinants of Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI)-defined anxiety and related disorders among antenatal and postnatal women attending primary healthcare facilities in southwestern Nigeria. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 406 women (203 antenatal; 203 postnatal) attending primary healthcare facilities. Sociodemographic, psychosocial, and clinical variables were assessed using a structured questionnaire. Anxiety and related disorders were diagnosed using the MINI. Chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression were performed separately for antenatal and postnatal groups. Results The overall prevalence of MINI-defined anxiety or related disorders was 44.8%, with similar rates in antenatal (45.3%) and postnatal (44.3%) women. Among pregnant women, polygamous family structure (AOR = 3.90; 95% CI: 1.02–14.87) and low educational attainment (no formal/primary education: AOR = 5.47; 95% CI: 1.65–18.09) independently predicted anxiety disorders. In the postpartum group, younger maternal age (≤ 25 years: AOR = 3.32; 95% CI: 1.35–8.19) and low monthly income (≤₦20,000: AOR = 2.44; 95% CI: 1.37–4.33) were independently associated with anxiety disorders. Conclusions Perinatal anxiety disorders are highly prevalent in this Nigerian cohort. Distinct predictors emerged across the perinatal period, highlighting the need for stage-specific screening and interventions that address socioeconomic vulnerability and household structural factors.