Postpartum Depressive Symptoms among Bangladeshi Women: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a severe mental condition that typically arises in women within the first 12 months after delivery. Untreated PPD may lead to negative outcomes for mothers, children, and families. This study aimed to measure the prevalence of postpartum depressive symptoms among women in the Khulna region of Bangladesh and identify potential associated factors. Methods: A hospital-based, quantitative, cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in Khulna, involving a sample size of 187 women who had given birth within the past 2–12 weeks. Participants were selected using a convenience sampling technique. The dependent variable, PPD, was measured using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), with a cutoff score of greater than 10. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and an interdependent sample t -test were conducted to assess mean differences in EPDS scores across subgroups of independent variables. Additionally, binary logistic regression was performed to identify potential factors associated with increased PPD. Both univariate and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted. The reliability of the EDPS was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha (0.890). Results: The overall prevalence of PPD was found to be 35.3%. The findings of this study revealed a significant association between PPD and various factors. Residing in urban areas, unemployment, having more than two children, dissatisfaction in marital relationships, a history of miscarriage, complications during pregnancy, exposure to stressful life events, unplanned pregnancy, post-delivery illness, difficulties with the baby’s sleeping patterns, receiving minimal to occasional emotional support from family members, lack of family support for child care, and experiencing physical violence were identified as significant risk factors for PPD. Conclusion: This study identifies various factors associated with PPD that should be considered during the postpartum period. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions by healthcare providers and caregivers to support women during this critical phase. Addressing these factors could improve maternal well-being and ensure the necessary care during the postpartum period.