Prevalence and associated factors of postpartum depression symptoms among mothers in Mogadishu, Somalia: A Hospital-based Cross-sectional Study.

INTRODUCTION

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a major public health concern, affecting an estimated 10-15 % of women worldwide, with higher rates consistently reported in low- and middle-income countries. This study sought to estimate the prevalence of PPD symptoms and identify associated risk factors among postpartum mothers in Mogadishu, Somalia.

METHODS

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Erdogan Hospital, Mogadishu, between November 1 and December 31, 2023. Using systematic sampling, 271 postpartum mothers were recruited. Data were collected through structured questionnaires assessing sociodemographic, obstetric, and infant-related characteristics. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was used to screen for PPD symptoms, while the Maternity Social Support Scale (MSSS) measured perceived social support. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with PPD., and results were reported as adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

Of the 271 participants, 26.6 % (95 % CI: 21.4 %-32.2 %) screened positive for PPD symptoms. Significant variables associated with PPD symptoms included stressful life events (AOR = 14.46; 95 % CI: 5.75-36.34), history of depression (AOR = 3.11; 95 % CI: 1.36-7.08), infant sleep difficulties (AOR = 2.53; 95 % CI: 1.27-5.05), pregnancy complications (AOR = 2.55; 95 % CI: 1.12-5.82), and low (AOR = 12.72; 95 % CI: 3.77-42.90) or moderate (AOR = 2.67; 95 % CI: 1.28-5.60) levels of social support.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that more than one in four mothers in Mogadishu experience symptoms of postpartum depression. The findings underscore the need for healthcare professionals to prioritize routine screening for psychological distress, closely monitor women at higher risk, provide timely interventions, and strengthen social support systems. Integrating targeted psychoeducational programs into perinatal care and developing culturally sensitive mental health services could play a critical role in reducing the burden of PPD in Somalia.