Postnatal depression in Southern Brazil: prevalence and its demographic and socioeconomic determinants
2008

Postnatal Depression in Southern Brazil: Prevalence and Risk Factors

Sample size: 271 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Tannous Leila, Gigante Luciana P, Fuchs Sandra C, Busnello Ellis DA

Primary Institution: Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul

Hypothesis

What is the prevalence of postnatal depression in women residing in Southern Brazil and what are the associated risk factors?

Conclusion

The prevalence of postnatal depression is higher than in most developed countries and is significantly associated with income levels.

Supporting Evidence

  • The prevalence rate of postnatal depression was found to be 20.7%.
  • Per capita income was significantly associated with postnatal depression.
  • Women without a partner had a higher risk of developing postnatal depression.

Takeaway

Many new mothers in Southern Brazil feel very sad after having a baby, and how much money they have can affect how they feel.

Methodology

This was a population-based cross-sectional study using a sample of women who delivered in June 2001, with data collected through home visits and interviews.

Potential Biases

Potential biases may arise from self-reported data and the non-recruitment rate of less than 10%.

Limitations

The cross-sectional design limits the ability to establish temporal relationships between risk factors and postnatal depression.

Participant Demographics

Participants were women aged 14 to 47, with a mean age of 20 to 29 years, predominantly Caucasian, and many without employment.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.01

Confidence Interval

95% CI 15.7 – 25.7

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-244X-8-1

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