Effects of Self Efficacy, Body Image and Family Support on Postpartum Depression in Early Postpartum Mothers

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the self efficacy, body image and family support affect on postpartum depression in early postpartum mothers. The data was collected 306 mothers on the first week after delivery from one hospital located in B city. The instruments were a survey of general characteristics, obstetrical characteristics, the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale(EPDS), self-efficacy, body image and family support. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficients, and stepwise multiple regression. The results revealed that the average item score of the EPDS was 6.09. The significant predictors of postpartum depression were body image, emotional state in pregnancy, and family support. These variables had a 38.4% explainability. The results indicate that the postpartum mothers should be screened for postpartum depression early in the postpartum period and it’s necessary to implement nursing intervention focused on to enhance the body image and family support, especially the weak emotional state mothers in pregnancy.