Antenatal Depression and Related Behaviours in Indonesia

Abstract

Nowadays people are starting to realize depression during pregnancy. Depressive symptoms can be reflected in behaviors shown daily. The aim of the study is to identify antenatal depression in Riau and behaviors related to it. In this quantitative study, the Edinburgh postpartum/perinatal depression scale (EPDS) was used to screen for depression, and a questionnaire was developed based on a literature review to identify the behaviors of 97 pregnant women from two health centers in Riau, Indonesia. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. This study revealed the presence of depression in pregnant women at mild (38.1%) and moderate (5.2%) levels. Antenatal depression can be shown by physical behaviors, psychological behaviors, and social behaviors. Depression can occur during pregnancy, and nursing further action is needed to prevent more severe depression during perinatal. Keywords: antenatal depression, depression behavior