Risk of Postpartum Depression among Mothers in Vinh Bao District, Hai Phong City, Vietnam in 2023

Oanh Thi Hoang, Lan Anh Thai, Tuan Anh Truong

Abstract: Objective: This study assessed the prevalence and symptoms of probable postpartum depression among mothers in Vinh Bao district, Hai Phong, Vietnam. Methods: A cross-sectional study surveyed 204 mothers from 1 week to 6 months postpartum using the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS) with a cut-off of ?13. Data were analyzed via SPSS 20.0. Results: The prevalence of probable postpartum depression was 18.1%, with higher rates among mothers 4?6 months postpartum, aged under 25 or over 35, and with three or more deliveries. Common symptoms included anxiety (91.9%), feeling overwhelmed (83.8%), and self-blame (83.8%), with 13.5% reporting self-harm thoughts. Conclusion: The notable risk of postpartum depression in this region underscores the need for educational interventions to enhance early detection and prevention, improving maternal mental health outcomes.

Keywords: postpartum depression, maternal health, Hai Phong, Vietnam, EPDS