Authors : Abdihakim A. Sheikh; Dominic M. Mogere; Alexander M. Mbeke

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 4 - April

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25apr1446

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Abstract : Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant global mental health issue, affecting 10-15% of women after childbirth. While its prevalence is well documented worldwide, the socio-demographic factors influencing PPD in Somalia remain understudied. This study explores the impact of socio-demographic variables on PPD among women delivering at Banadir Hospital, Mogadishu, Somalia, a setting influenced by distinct socio-economic and cultural factors.  Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed to investigate the relationship between socio- demographic variables and PPD. Quantitative data were collected using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and structured questionnaires, while qualitative data were gathered through focus group discussions. Stratified random sampling was used for participant selection, and data analysis involved descriptive statistics (SPSS V20.0 and MS Excel) and thematic analysis for qualitative insights.  Results: The findings revealed that the majority of respondents were aged between 24-29 years (74 women, 44.04%), followed by those aged 18-23 years (62 women, 36.9%), while the least represented age group was 42-47 years (5 women, 2.38%). In terms of marital status, 81 women (48.21%) were married, 69 women (41.01%) were single, 16 women (9.52%) were divorced, and 2 women (1.19%) were widowed. Regarding education, most had primary education (92 women, 54.76%), followed by secondary education (39 women, 23.21%), while 28 women (16.67%) had no formal education, and only 9 women (5.36%) had attained college or university education. Occupation-wise, 98 women (58.33%) were housewives, 36 (21.43%) were students, 22 (13.1%) were teachers, and the least represented were health workers (4 women, 2.38%).  Conclusion and Recommendations: This study examines the link between postpartum depression and sociodemographic factors among women at Banadir Hospital, Somalia. Younger mothers aged 18–29 years, single women, divorced women, those with lower education levels, and housewives experienced higher prevalence. Targeted mental health interventions, including screening, psychosocial support, and awareness programs, are crucial for early identification and support. Strengthening maternal health services through enhanced screening, counseling, and community-based initiatives can improve postpartum care and overall well-being in this population.

Keywords : Postpartum Depression, Risk Factors, Maternal Health, Banadir Hospital, Prevalence, Somalia.

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