Postpartum depression among mothers attending the postnatal clinic at Elshadai Hospital, Nkumba, Wakiso district. A Cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/25sryc95Keywords:
Health education, postpartum depression, postnatal clinic, Elshadai hospital, Nkumba, Psychosocial supportAbstract
Background:
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common mental health condition, affecting mothers after childbirth with significant consequences for maternal well-being and infant care. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of mothers towards postpartum depression, attending the postnatal clinic at Elshadai Hospital in Nkumba, Wakiso District.
Methodology:
A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed. 52 postnatal mothers at Elshadai Hospital were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2016. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages.
Results:
The majority of respondents were aged 24–29 years (22, 42.3%), (5, 9.7%), were aged 36 years and above, (34, 65.4%) were married, whereas (4, 7.7%) were widowed. (20, 38.5%) had attained secondary education, (4, 7.7%) had no formal education, (21, 40.4%) were Catholic, (38, 73.1%) had attended a postnatal clinic before, while a minority had not attended (14, 26.9%). The majority of mothers (63.5%) had heard of PPD, primarily from health workers (38.5%), and most recognized hormonal changes as a major cause. Positive attitudes were observed, with 42.3% acknowledging PPD as a real health problem and 50% strongly agreeing that affected women should seek help. In practice, (34.6%) mothers sometimes shared emotions with health workers and (38.5%) practiced self-care occasionally, while 59.6% had not attended any health education or counseling sessions.
Conclusion:
Mothers demonstrated moderate knowledge, generally positive attitudes, and variable practices toward postpartum depression. However, gaps in awareness, misconceptions, and inconsistent engagement with health services were noted.
Recommendations:
Strengthen postnatal mental health education, integrate routine PPD screening, and promote counseling and psychosocial support at health facilities. Mothers are encouraged to actively participate in postnatal education sessions, share their emotional experiences with healthcare providers, and adopt self-care practices to maintain mental health during the postpartum period.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Phiona Nanyonjo, Racheal Aber, Jane Frank Nalubega, Hasifa Nansereko, Immaculate Prosperia Naggulu, Francisco Ssemuwemba (Author)
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