ABSTRACT
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a very serious public health problems in developing countries like
Nigeria. This study is a descriptive cross-sectional study to evaluate the prevalence and predictors of
PPD among women attending Alimosho local government area of Lagos, Nigeria. The research reached
407 postpartum women who attended two primary health care facilities for infant immunization
between 2 weeks to 24 weeks (6 months) post-delivery in the Alimosho Local Government Area. The
Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), an EPDS cut off mark ≥13 was used in the assessment
of PPD. In this setting, the prevalence of PPD stands alarmingly high at 43.5%, far above the global
averages and above previous regional estimates, thus pointing to a potentially severe mental health
crisis. Analysis demonstrated some significant risk factors that contributed to this rising rate of PPD.
For example, it was observed that women with only primary or no formal education showed 74.1%
higher chances than the ones who had tertiary education, and below-average income earners reported a
46.6% higher risk as compared to women earning average income. In fact, unmarried, separated, or
divorced women were found to have a 73.9% increased risk of developing PPD as compared to married
women, while women who had anxiety or worry before their pregnancy had a 60.6% heightened risk
for PPD. The findings underpin the urgent need for psychosocial interventions, improved policies of
screening at primary health care level, support programs for single mothers who are vulnerable with
lower education and income, and integration of mental health services within the usual maternal care.
The study thus advocates for community-based support systems targeting vulnerable populations and
presents very good evidence to inform the introduction of comprehensive maternal mental health
initiatives within the primary health-care framework in Lagos State.
Keywords: Postpartum Depression (PPD), Maternal Mental Health, Mental Health
Interventions, Maternal Care Pathways
How to cite: Anyaegbusim AO1 , Badru OA2, Ofurum C. Prevalence and Predictors of Postpartum
Depression among Women Attending Immunization Clinics in Primary Health Centers in
Alimosho Local Government Area, Lagos State. Global Professionals Multidisciplinary Practices
Journal. 2025, 1(5):13-31
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