Analysis of obstetric-related factors influencing the occurrence of puerperal depression: A retrospective study

Postpartum depression is a mood disorder characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, and anxiety that persist beyond the typical “baby blues” period. This study examines the prevalence of puerperal depression and its associated obstetric factors. A total of 208 mothers who delivered in the obstetrics department of this hospital from January 2020 to December 2023 were followed up during the puerperium in this retrospective cohort study. Participants were categorized into depression and non-depression groups based on their scores on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Differences in basic information and clinical information between the 2 groups were observed. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with puerperal depression. A single-factor analysis revealed statistically significant differences in several factors related to pregnancy and childbirth, including the frequency of prenatal checkups, mode of delivery, neonatal malformations, neonatal diseases, breastfeeding practices, and whether maternal–infant rooming-in was practiced ( P < .05). Furthermore, a multivariable logistic regression analysis identified the duration of the first stage of labor, the mode of delivery, the presence of neonatal anomalies, and breastfeeding status as significant predictors of puerperal depression. Specifically, these factors exhibited odds ratios of 2.145, 1.495, 1.733, and 1.446, respectively, indicating their substantial influence on the occurrence of this condition. Maternal depression during the puerperium requires clinical attention. The duration of the first stage of labor, mode of delivery, presence of neonatal malformations, and breastfeeding status are important obstetric factors influencing puerperal depression.