A Study on Evaluation of Prevalence And Risk Factors of Post Partum Depression (PPD) in Indian Women

Objective: To study the prevalence of Post Partum Depression (PPD)in Indian women and to evaluate the risk factors for the development of PPD. Materials And Methods: This cross-sectional study was done among 278 novel mothers (post delivery 10 days to 3 months) attending post partum clinics of K.P.C.Medical College & Hospital. Socio-economic factors and detailed obstetric variables were assessed using a programmed questionnaire. PPD was estimated using Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Those who scored more than 13 were considered to have PPD and were referred to a psychiatrist for further evaluation. Results: Prevalence of PPD was found to be 26.97%. Among the risk factors,nultiparity, advanced age, low socio-economic condition, minority community, foetal complications andvaginal delivery were found to be the most common. Conclusion: All mothers especially those with risk factors should routinely be evaluated for the presence of PPD. Counseling should be offered to those women diagnosed with PPD to reduce it’s ill effects on herself, her child and other members of the family.