Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of postpartum depression (PPD) and identify associated risk factors among postpartum women in a tertiary care hospital in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among postpartum women following-up in King Fahad University Hospital. Data were collected through structured interviews using a validated electronic questionnaire administered via phone calls. Women who declined participation or submitted incomplete responses were excluded from the analysis.
Results: A total of 252 participants were included. The prevalence of PPD, as assessed by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, was 27%. No significant association was found between sociodemographic characteristics and PPD. However, lower socioeconomic status emerged as a significant predictor (p = 0.044). Certain clinical and obstetric characteristics were also significantly associated with elevated PPD rates. The most prominent predictors included insufficient spousal support (OR = 7.02, p < 0.001), exposure to difficult life events (OR = 4.96, p < 0.001), and a prior history of PPD (OR = 4.50, p = 0.016).
Conclusion: According to this study, obstetric and psychosocial factors were significant predictors of PPD. These findings emphasize the importance to incorporate psychosocial support and mental health screening into standard maternity care.

Key words: Postpartum depression, prevalence, maternal health, risk factors, Saudi Arabia