Depression and anxiety among antenatal and postnatal mothers: A community-based cross-sectional study

Abstract

Emotional disturbances such as anxiety and depression during pregnancy can affect maternal well-being and fetal health. Women experiencing psychological distress during pregnancy often show poor compliance with antenatal advice and irregular follow-up. This study assessed anxiety and depressive symptoms among antenatal and postnatal mothers using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 and Patient Health Questionnaire scales and compared mental health profiles between the groups. A community-based analytical cross-sectional study was conducted for 6 months (October 2021–April 2022) in the rural field practice area of a primary health center under the Department of Community Medicine. Based on previous evidence, 180 participants were enrolled. Data were gathered using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Ethical principles were adhered to throughout the study. Data entry was carried out in Epi Info 7 and analysis in Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 21. Logistic regression was applied to explore associations. Mild depressive symptoms predominated among antenatal mothers, while most postnatal women showed no depressive symptoms. Depression levels differed significantly between the two groups ( p = 0.001). Incorporating mental health screening into routine antenatal care is essential for early detection of psychological morbidity. Strengthening community-level awareness can help reduce the burden of maternal depression.