Prevalence of postpartum depression and its predictors among nursing mothers in selected hospitals in Nsukka, Nigeria: a cross-sectional survey

Purpose This study aims to determine the prevalence and predictors of postpartum depression (PPD) among nursing mothers in Nsukka, Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach This study was a descriptive cross-sectional survey among nursing mothers in three hospitals in Nsukka, Nigeria. Data was collected using a self-administered Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS) and sociodemographic form. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test and binary logistic regression. Findings A total of 270 nursing mothers participated in this survey, giving a response rate of 94.4%. The prevalence of PPD among the study group was 20.0%. However, women who did not have complications during childbirth were about two times (AOR = 0.417, 95% CI = 0.204, 0.852, P = 0.016) less likely to develop symptoms of PPD than women who experienced birth complications. In addition, women who had poor relationships with their partners have approximately seven times (AOR = 6.994, 95% CI = 1.110, 44.059, P = 0.038) higher odds of developing PPD compared with those women who had excellent relationships with their partners. Research limitations/implications The sample size was small, hence, might limit the generalizability of its findings beyond the study group. Health-care practitioners should provide appropriate interventions to women at a higher risk of developing PPD on the need to maintain a healthy and supportive relationship with their partners. Originality/value This study provides unique insight into PPD among nursing mothers and its determinants from a different regional, socioeconomic, societal expectations, social support system, access to health care and cultural context.