Abstract

Introduction: This study was aimed to determine the prevalence and pertaining contributors of postpartum depression (PD) in clients referring to the Health Care Centers in Sari city, Iran.

Method: 422 pregnant women at their third trimester referred to ten antenatal care units from Feb. 2001 to Aug. 2002. Mothers were further followed up 6-8 weeks after childbirth. The data was collec- ted using Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS), short form of Spielberger’s State Anxiety Inventory, General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) and a demographic questionnaire.

Results: According to the EPDS the prevalence of PD was 22% (n=92) during 6-8 weeks after de- livery. Also, 30% of the mothers were depressed during the third trimester of pregnancy. Based on the GHQ data analysis, 37% (n=157) and 31% (n=132) of the samples were suspected to have a psychiatric morbidity in the third trimester and 6-8 weeks postpartum, respectively. There was a significant relationship between postpartum depression and stressful life events, family support, baby’s health problems, perceived ability to nurse the baby, and the problems at delivery.

Conclusion: The prevalence of depression and psychiatric disorders are higher during pregnancy and decrease postpartum.