Assessment of Nurses’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Postpartum Depression and Its Prevalence Among Postpartum Mothers

Abstract

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant public health concern that affects mothers’ psychological well-being and can negatively influence infant development and family functioning. This study aimed to assess nurses’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding postpartum depression and to determine the prevalence and predictors of PPD among postpartum mothers. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted involving 300 participants, including 150 nurses working in maternal and postnatal units and 150 postpartum mothers within one year after childbirth. Participants were selected using a convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using two structured questionnaires: a nurses’ questionnaire assessing socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to PPD, and a mothers’ questionnaire assessing socio-demographic and obstetric characteristics, depressive symptoms using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), and available social and professional support. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participant characteristics and study variables, while chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine associations and identify predictors of postpartum depression. The findings provided insights into the level of nurses’ preparedness to recognize and manage PPD and highlighted factors associated with depressive symptoms among postpartum mothers. The study emphasizes the importance of routine screening, early detection, adequate professional training, and strengthened social support systems to improve maternal mental health outcomes and reduce the burden of postpartum depression.