Postpartum mothers' perceptions of factors that influence postpartum traumatic stress disorder in Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background/Aims During pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period, a woman's risk of developing a mental disorder increases. These disorders can include postpartum traumatic stress disorder, maternal postpartum depression and maternal psychotic disorder. This study's aim was to explore postpartum mothers' perceptions of the factors that prevent or contribute to postpartum traumatic stress disorder at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital in Cross River State. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive survey approach was used with a sample of 138 women chosen at random from the study area. A structured questionnaire was used to gather data on the participants' agreement with statements regarding the influence of social support, economic status and professional support on preventing postpartum traumatic stress disorder. Responses on a Likert scale (strongly agree, agree, disagree, strongly disagree) to statements on each of the factors were converted to means, with a mean score ≥2.5 indicating a factor that had a positive influence on preventing postpartum traumatic stress disorder. Results Social support (mean score: 3.64), having a high economic status (mean score: 3.71) and receiving professional support (mean score: 3.83) were perceived to have a positive impact on preventing postpartum traumatic stress disorder. There was a significant link between the influencing factors and the impact on postpartum traumatic stress disorder. Conclusions A traumatic birthing experience can have a negative impact on postpartum traumatic stress disorder, which can be mitigated by support from friends and professionals, as well as by a family's economic status. Future research should explore this issue at other health facilities across Nigeria to ascertain the factors associated with postpartum traumatic stress disorder.