Postpartum Depression, Breastfeeding Practices and Nutritional Status of Children at Two Health Facilities in Accra, Ghana

Abstract

Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is one of the most common psychiatric complications of childbirth. Unfortunately, most PPD cases are undetected and untreated, with attendant significant effects on maternal and neonatal health outcomes. Methodology: A cross sectional study of 300 mothers aged 15 to 45 years was undertaken to examine the association between PPD, breastfeeding practices and nutritional status of their children (0-12 months) attending the Greater Accra Regional and Police hospitals. Convenience sampling was used to select participants. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain sociodemographic information. The Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9), a diagnostic tool for mental health disorders, was used to assess the presence and severity of depression. WHO Anthropometric Standards were employed to assess the nutritional status of children, and a modified USAID Tool kit for breastfeeding evaluation was used to assess breastfeeding practices. Data was analyzed using Stata version 15.0. Results: The prevalence of postpartum depression was found to be 27%; with about 4% of the mothers having severe depression. Employment status and the timing of initiation of breastfeeding were found to be significantly associated with depression. Women who were unable to start breastfeeding immediately after birth were twice as likely to be depressed compared to those who initiated breastfeeding at birth (AOR=2.40; 95% CI=1.08-5.36). Although 17% of the children enrolled in this study were found to be malnourished, no significant association between child nutritional status and PPD was observed. Conclusion: The high prevalence of PPD among mothers in this study (27%) presents a significant public health concern that requires prompt action as it impacts the family. Measures should be put in place for early detection and diagnosis, as well as appropriate interventions. Further studies are needed to unravel the effects of maternal depression on breastfeeding practices and nutritional status of children.