Predictors of Postpartum Depression During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is an important gestational complication with adverse consequences for mothers and their families and may be influenced by multiple factors. Objectives: This study aimed to identify predictors of PPD during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 230 postpartum mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic at Kowsar Educational-Therapeutic Center in Qazvin, Iran. Convenience sampling was used, and data were collected using online questionnaires. Data were analyzed using regression models in SPSS software version 24. The level of statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results: The mean ± SD PPD score among the participants was 16.56 ± 5.66. Social support (β = -0.08, P < 0.001), fear of COVID-19 (β = 0.14, P < 0.001), and marital satisfaction (β = -0.06, P < 0.001) were significant predictors of PPD. However, self-efficacy was not significantly associated with PPD. Conclusions: These findings indicate that social support and marital satisfaction, as negative predictors, and fear of COVID-19, as a positive predictor, are key determinants of PPD during the COVID-19 pandemic. PPD may be ameliorated through counseling aimed at enhancing spousal support, improving marital satisfaction, and reducing fear of COVID-19.