Postpartum Depression among Mothers Attending Immunization Services at a Tertiary Hospital in India: A Facility Based Observational Study

Abstract Background: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Postpartum Depression (PPD) and identify risk factors among mothers availing tertiary healthcare setting in India. Materials and Methods: A facility-based study was carried out among 332 mothers attending the immunization outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was used to screen depressive symptoms. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression to identify factors significantly associated with PPD. Results: The mean age of the study participants was 24.56 ± 3.72 years. The prevalence of PPD was found to be 38%. Key factors linked to higher PPD score included maternal education status, female infant gender, being a homemaker, obstetric complications, reported domestic violence, and recent family stressors. Conclusion: The study highlights a high burden of PPD in the early postnatal period. Strengthening routine screening for maternal mental health issues and ensuring early intervention in postnatal care settings can play a crucial role in improving outcomes for both mothers and infants.