Antenatal Depressive Symptoms and Its Associated Factors Among Pregnant Women in Northeast, Ethiopia

Antenatal depression is of utmost concern to public health due to its potential to negatively impact both mother and child health. Less research has been done on it, and it is not receiving enough attention in the study area. This study aimed to assess the magnitude of antenatal depressive symptoms and its associated factors among pregnant mothers in Dessie City administration, Ethiopia. From March 1 to 30, 2021, a cross-sectional study was conducted among 451 pregnant mothers in Dessie City Administration. Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPND) was used to assess antenatal depression. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess the determinants of depressive symptoms among the women. The proportion of antenatal depressive symptoms was 18.6% with 95% CI [15.1%, 22.2%]. Age greater than 30, monthly income less than 1,500 Ethiopian Birr, history of mental illness family member, a recent intimate partner violence history, death of a close family in recent year, and insomnia were significant factors affecting antenatal depression among pregnant mothers. Depression during pregnancy are high in the study area. Age >30 years, monthly income <1,500 Ethiopian Birr, history of mental illness in the family, experiencing recent intimate partner violence, death of a close family in recent year, and insomnia were independent predictors of depressive symptoms. Considering the integration of mental health services with maternal health care and providing attention to pregnant women during follow-up are recommended actions to reduce depressive symptoms.