Prevalence and risk factors of postpartum depression, anxiety, and comorbidity of both disorders: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) and postpartum anxiety (PPA) are common perinatal mental disorders affecting maternal and infant health. However, the epidemiological characteristics and risk factors of PPD, PPA, and the comorbidity of both disorders remain inadequately investigated. Methods: The cohort of this cross-sectional study included 2,152 postpartum women. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 were used to assess symptoms of PPD and PPA. Results: The self-reported point prevalence rates of PPD, PPA, and their comorbidity were 12.9%, 20.8%, and 9.4%, respectively. Among the participants, 12.9% and 8.4% experienced moderate-to-severe symptoms of PPD and PPA, respectively. Spearman’s correlation analysis revealed a correlation between the total PHQ-9 and EPDS scores (r = 0.404, p < 0.001). Sleep duration < 6 h was associated with increased risks of symptoms of PPD (RR = 1.862, p < 0.001), while sleep duration > 8 h was a protective factor for PPA symptoms (RR = 0.795, p = 0.024). A low annual household income was significantly correlated with higher risks for symptoms of PPD (RR = 3.369, p < 0.001) and PPA (RR = 2.148, p < 0.001). Conclusion: This study revealed high prevalence rates of PPD and PPA, with frequent comorbidity. These findings suggest the importance of combined screening of women for both PPD and PPA, with particular attention to sleep quality and economic status.