Prevalence and associated factors of antenatal depression in rural Bangladesh

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundAccording to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 322 million individuals globally were grappling with depressive disorders in 2015. During pregnancy, the risk of experiencing depression is elevated due to certain hormonal changes. Despite the potentially severe consequences of antenatal depression for both the mother and newborn, there have been limited studies conducted on this issue in Bangladesh.ObjectiveTo find out the prevalence and associated factors of antenatal depression in a rural sub-district in Bangladesh.MethodA cross-sectional study was performed in Lohagara, a rural subdistrict in Narail, situated in the southern part of Bangladesh between January 08 and 14, 2024. 350 subjects were recruited for the study, who were pregnant at various trimesters and attended antenatal check-ups in a government health complex and a private hospital in Lohagara. The Bengali-translated version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and a structured questionnaire were used for data collection. Data were analyzed in STATA version 14.ResultThe point prevalence of antenatal depression is 39% (38.86%, in 95% CI: 33.9% to 44%). Gestational week (AOR: 0.4, 95% CI: 0.2, 0.8), unintended pregnancy (AOR: 1.7, 95% CI: 1, 3), intimate partner violence (AOR: 3.3, 95% CI: 1.1, 9.7), a history of previous diseases (AOR: 2.4, 95% CI: 1.1, 5.2), and the history of having polygamous husbands (AOR: 13.6, 95% CI: 1.1, 164) are found to be significantly associated with the development of depression in the prenatal period.ConclusionIn rural Narail, high rates of antenatal depression underscore the importance of increased awareness among healthcare professionals and families. Strategic involvement of stakeholders and policymakers is essential to address issues like intimate partner violence and polygamy. Moreover, there’s a critical need for extra care and counseling for pregnant women with a history of health problems or facing unexpected pregnancies.