Newborn Gender, Mode of Delivery and Family System, as Determinants of Postpartum Depression among Pakistani Mothers

Abstract

The objective of this research aimed to investigate culturally specific characteristics that may lead to postpartum depression among Pakistani mothers, including the preference for male children, the method of childbirth, and family structure. Maternal mental health has been studied widely because it is not only important for mothers’ healthy functioning but is also paramount for development of a healthy infant. Maternal mental health has been studied widely, but sociocultural and obstetric factors linked with postpartum depression are warranted independent study. A cross-sectional design, including 250 mothers in postpartum phase, with an age range of 18-25 were included. Mothers filled demographic form and Questionnaire of Postpartum Depression. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the results. According to T-test, mothers who gave birth to female child, had a caesarian section and lived in nuclear family were prone to developing postpartum depression. These results can help health care workers and mental health practitioners to identify mothers with risk factors earlier and provide targeted interventions.