Peripartum depression and contributing factors: An observational study

Objective: Peripartum depression (PD) is a common public health problem. Timely diagnosis and management are crucial and require careful attention from healthcare providers. This study aims to identify demographic, clinical, and laboratory factors associated with PD risk using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Materials and Methods: A total of two hundred and twenty-nine pregnant and postpartum subjects were recruited from our university hospital’s inpatient and outpatient clinics to evaluate peripartum depression development risk and contributing factors. Demographic and clinical characteristics, along with certain laboratory values (hemoglobin, thyroid hormones, and vitamin D levels) were analyzed. Results: Among the 229 subjects (137 pregnant, 92 postpartum), 30.1% had abnormal EPDS scores (≥13). Statistical analysis showed that maternal obstetric risk factors, fetal and neonatal health issues, and low vitamin D levels were significantly associated with an increased risk of perinatal depression. Conclusions: EPDS is a practical tool for screening PD risk in busy obstetrics inpatient and outpatient settings. Obstetric maternal health issues, fetal or neonatal health problems, and low vitamin D levels may contribute to a higher risk of PD. Pregnant or postpartum women with these risk factors should be closely monitored for PD progression and referred to a psychiatric professional when indicated.