| dc.description.abstract | Background: Antenatal depression is a significant concern for pregnant women globally, especially in
low- and middle-income nations where rates are notably higher than in developed countries. Hormonal
changes, psychosocial factors, and prior mental health issues contribute to this condition, posing risks for
both mothers and children, including adverse impacts on child development and increased chances of
poor fetal growth and miscarriage. Studies from various countries, such as Ethiopia, Rwanda, Malaysia,
and Bangladesh, emphasize social support as protective against antenatal depression, while intimate
partner violence (IPV) stands out as a risk factor. In rural areas of Bangladesh and neighboring countries
such as Nepal and Pakistan, factors such as illiteracy, poverty, and violence during pregnancy contribute
to a higher prevalence of antenatal depression. Consequently, this research aims to delve into the
prevalence and determinants of antenatal depression among pregnant women in Chittagong, Bangladesh.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study used a structured questionnaire and the Edinburgh Postnatal
Depression Scale (EPDS) to identify depressive symptoms in pregnant women. Data were collected
from Jameson Red Crescent Maternity Hospital and Memon Maternity Hospital, selecting pregnant
women aged 18 and above through simple random sampling, excluding those with specific medical
conditions. Data collection involved face-to-face interviews with 273 participants, covering
sociodemographic details, pregnancy-related characteristics, EPDS scores, intimate partner violence, and
social support. Depression was categorized using a locally validated EPDS with a cut-off score of ≥13.
Subsequently, data were inputted into SPSS software for consistency checks and error corrections before
analyzing to ascertain associations.
Result: The study revealed that 35.9% of pregnant women experienced severe antenatal depression. The
study found that gestational melitus diabetes (GDM), lack of social support, lifetime experience of
emotional, physical or sexual abuse, and lower emotional support from the partner is associated with
AND. Conversely, social support from friends and family decreased the risk (p < 0.05), while feeling
controlled by a partner increased it (p < 0.05). Other factors like a family history of mental illness and a
lack of interest in activities were also associated (p < 0.045 and p < 0.05, respectively).
Conclusion: This study highlights a concerning prevalence of severe antenatal depression, urging
targeted interventions and policy measures. Factors like lower education levels, gestational diabetes,
previous mental health concerns, stressful life events, intimate partner violence (IPV), and lifetime abuse
underscore the need for wide-reaching awareness campaigns and maternal education efforts while the
absence of social support and partner control poses significant risks. Therefore, developing a strategic
plan within Bangladesh's National Mental Health Policy to address antenatal depression is imperative for
early detection and intervention. | en_US |
