Evaluation of Depression and Mother-Infant Attachment in the Postpartum Period: The Case of Somalia.

AIM: This study evaluated postpartum depression levels among mothers in Somalia and examined its impact on mother-infant attachment.

METHODS

This descriptive correlational study was conducted at a training and research hospital in Mogadishu, involving a sample of 178 postpartum women. Data were collected using a "Personal Information Form" for demographics, the "Beck Depression Inventory" to measure depression levels, and the "Maternal Attachment Inventory" for maternal attachment characteristics. Statistical analysis using SPSS 26 software indicated significance at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

The results revealed moderate depression symptoms and low maternal attachment levels among the participants. Higher depression and attachment scores were observed among university graduates, employees, and those with planned pregnancies (p < 0.05). Furthermore, a weak positive relationship existed between the Beck Depression Inventory and the Maternal Attachment Inventory scores (r = 0.282, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The results suggest the importance of recognizing and intervening in postpartum depression early, with a focus on identifying contributing factors and emphasizing the need for targeted counseling to enhance maternal attachment.