Postpartum depression in Lithuania and its association with socio-demographic and other factors

Abstract Background Postpartum depression remains globally prevalent and may lead to self-harm or harm to the child, especially under heightened stress. The main aim of the study was to analyze the prevalence of postpartum depression and examine its association with socio-demographic, behavioral and other factors. Methods the study was conducted in the 2024 autumn using an anonymous online questionnaire. Participants were recruited through social media platforms. The questionnaire was composed of several structural parts: sociodemographic data, behavioral and other factors, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. A total of 1,010 women participated in the study. Spearman correlation coefficient and Fisher exact tests were used for the analysis. Results The target group of the study consisted of women who had given birth within the past six months. The results indicated that among the 1,010 respondents, 13.3% showed indications of postnatal depression, while 41.4% were suspected to have postnatal depression. A very high risk of postnatal depression was identified in 1.98% of respondents. A significant negative correlation was observed between depressive symptoms and material status (r=-0.1939, p < 0.001). Physical activity during pregnancy/postnatal period was also significantly negatively correlated with postnatal depression (r=-0.0914, p = 0.004; r=-0.1326, p < 0.001). A deteriorating relationship with the partner and close individuals was associated with increased risk of depression (r = 0.343, p < 0.001; r = 0.2836, p < 0.001). Breastfeeding, close relatives’ support, and planned pregnancy were all associated with lower levels of depression (p = 0.004; p < 0.001; p < 0.001). Conclusions The results indicated that 54.7% of respondents showed signs of postnatal depression. Socio-demographic and behavioral variables like financial status, low physical activity, lack of support from relatives and deteriorating relationships were significantly associated with depressive symptom levels. Key messages • In this study, 41.4% of respondents were presumed to have postpartum depression, and 13.3% had clinically relevant symptoms consistent with this disorder. • Support from family and positive interpersonal relationships, along with adequate financial resources, physical activity may serve as protective factors in coping with postpartum depression.