Impact of delivery method on postnatal depression in Jordanian women: Insights from a cross-sectional survey

ObjectivePostnatal depression is a common and serious mental health problem. Despite the existence of established risk factors for postnatal depression, the role of the mode of delivery in influencing its prevalence remains a topic of debate. This study investigated the potential association between postnatal depression and the mode of delivery, specifically comparing the prevalence of postnatal depression in women who had a vaginal delivery versus those who underwent either an emergency or elective cesarean section. This study aimed to explore how different modes of delivery affect the prevalence and severity of postnatal depression among women in Jordan.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted at Jordan University Hospital between January and April 2024 to assess postnatal depression among women who delivered singleton fetuses 1 week after delivery. The participants completed a self-reported questionnaire, which collected demographic data and responses to the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. These responses were used to evaluate postnatal depression symptoms.ResultsA total of 267 women participated in the study. Results showed no significant association or difference in the postnatal depression scores between different modes of delivery (p = 0.459 and 0.441). Moreover, gestational age at the time of delivery and the infant feeding method after delivery showed no significant differences in the postnatal depression scores (p = 0.681 and 0.537, respectively). Results showed that the occurrence of intrapartum complications was associated with an approximately two times greater risk of developing postnatal depression (adjusted odds ratio = 1.96, p = 0.013).DiscussionThis study found no clear relationship between the mode of delivery and postnatal depression, with similar depression scores observed across vaginal and cesarean deliveries. Peripartum complications were linked to a higher risk of postnatal depression, whereas factors such as age, occupation, and infant feeding method showed inconsistent associations. The results highlight the complex, multifactorial nature of postnatal depression.ConclusionsThere was no significant association or difference in the postnatal depression scores between the modes of delivery. The results suggested that factors other than the mode of delivery played a more significant role in the development of postnatal depression among the women included in this study. Although our findings contribute to the understanding of maternal mental health, further research is needed to explore additional risk factors and interventions for postnatal depression.