Prevalence and Risk Factors of Postpartum Depression: A Single-Center Study

Abstract

Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a prevalent maternal mental health condition with significant implications for maternal and neonatal well-being, yet remains underdiagnosed and poorly characterized in the Middle Eastern context, particularly in Kuwait. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of PPD and its association with key socio-demographic, obstetric, psychosocial, and biological risk factors among postpartum women attending a tertiary care hospital in Kuwait. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among postpartum women (n = 281) within six weeks of delivery at Farwaniya Hospital, Kuwait. Women with prior psychiatric illness or severe obstetric complications were excluded. Data were collected via structured interviews using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and pretested questionnaires. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board, and all procedures adhered to the Declaration of Helsinki. Data were analyzed using SPSS v27, applying descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression. Results: The prevalence of PPD was 35.6%. Significant predictors included age <25 years (aOR = 1.92, p = 0.021), lack of formal education (aOR = 2.22, p = 0.009), neonatal death (aOR = 8.58, p = 0.002), and absence of spousal support (aOR = 12.38, p < 0.001). Conclusion: PPD is highly prevalent and strongly associated with modifiable socio-psychological and obstetric factors. Integrating early screening and partner-inclusive interventions into maternal care can significantly enhance mental health outcomes.