Prevalence and Determinants of Postpartum Depression among Mothers in Uttarakhand, India: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Siddhesh Kolambkar, Neha Verma, Shivani DahiwelkarAbstract
Background:
Post-partum depression (PPD) is a major contributor to maternal morbidity but remains under-recognised in India, and evidence from Uttarakhand is sparse. This study estimated the prevalence of PPD among mothers in Dehradun and identified associated socio-demographic, obstetric and psychosocial determinants.
Methods:
A community-based cross-sectional study was undertaken (August 2024–January 2025) in the catchment areas of rural and urban health-training centres in Dehradun. Mothers aged ≥18 years with infants aged 2–24 months were recruited by household visits using convenience sampling. Data were collected through structured interviews including the Edinburgh Post-natal Depression Scale (EPDS), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support and Iowa Infant Feeding Attitude Scale. Chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression assessed associations.
Results:
Among 230 participants, the prevalence of probable PPD (EPDS ≥10) was 10.9%. Lower-middle socioeconomic status (INR: 9865–16,435) (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.04; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.01–0.72) and higher perceived family support (AOR: 0.21; 95% CI: 0.06–0.72) were protective.
Conclusions:
PPD prevalence in Dehradun was below national estimates. Family-centred support and routine PPD screening in primary care may strengthen maternal mental health.