Prevalence and Predictors of Postpartum Depression Among Mothers Receiving Postnatal Care in Urban Secondary Hospitals in South-West Nigeria

Background

Postpartum depression is a major public health concern affecting maternal wellbeing, infant development, and family functioning. In Nigeria, mental health disorders among women are often underdiagnosed due to stigma, poor awareness, and limited integration of mental health services into maternal healthcare. Rapid urbanization, economic pressures, inadequate social support, and pregnancy-related complications may increase vulnerability to postpartum depression among Nigerian mothers. Despite growing recognition of maternal mental health as a critical component of reproductive health, evidence on the prevalence and determinants of postpartum depression remains insufficient in many urban settings. Early identification of at-risk mothers can improve maternal outcomes and inform interventions integrated within routine postnatal care services. This study seeks to assess the prevalence and predictors of postpartum depression among mothers attending postnatal clinics in selected urban secondary hospitals in South-West Nigeria.

Research Objectives

• Determine the prevalence of postpartum depression among mothers attending postnatal clinics.
• Assess socio-demographic factors associated with postpartum depression.
• Examine the influence of social support on postpartum depression.
• Evaluate the relationship between obstetric factors and postpartum depression.
• Identify predictors of postpartum depression among postpartum mothers.

Research Questions

• What is the prevalence of postpartum depression among mothers attending postnatal clinics?
• Which socio-demographic factors are associated with postpartum depression?
• How does social support influence postpartum depression?
• What obstetric factors are associated with postpartum depression?
• Which variables independently predict postpartum depression?

Suggested Methodology

Suggested Sample

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