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Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 142 views

Postpartum Depression Syndrome at the Adam Malik Hajj Center General Hospital Medan: A Study on Risk Factors and Prevention Strategies

Introduction

Being a mother is an extraordinary gift, but the journey to motherhood is not always filled with happiness alone. Postpartum Depression Syndrome (DPP) is a reality faced by many mothers after giving birth, creating shadows of sadness and anxiety that prevent them from enjoying their new role. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), postpartum depression affects approximately 1 in 7 women worldwide, making it a significant public health concern. In this article, we will discuss a study conducted at the Adam Malik Hajj General Hospital Medan in 2009, which aimed to reveal the picture of DPP syndrome in post-delivery mothers.

Background

Research has shown that postpartum depression is a complex condition that is influenced by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is a widely used screening tool for postpartum depression, which assesses symptoms of depression and anxiety in new mothers. The EPDS questionnaire was used in the study conducted at the Adam Malik Hajj General Hospital Medan to assess the prevalence of DPP syndrome in post-delivery mothers.

Methodology

The study involved 50 post-delivery mothers who gave birth spontaneously. The participants were assessed using the EPDS questionnaire, which consists of 10 items that evaluate symptoms of depression and anxiety. The results showed that 16% of mothers experienced DPP syndrome, while the remaining 84% were not.

Results

The study revealed interesting facts related to the risk factors of DPP syndrome. There was a significant difference in DPP syndrome based on work groups, education level, psychosocial stressor, and previous depression history. That is, women who work, have a low level of education, experience psychosocial stressors, and have a history of previous depression have a higher chance of experiencing DPP syndrome.

Discussion

These results underline the importance of attention to these factors in efforts to prevent and handle DPP syndrome. Work can be a source of pressure and demands that drain energy and time after delivery. Low levels of education can be associated with limited access to information about mental health and social support. Psychosocial stressors such as family conflict, economic problems, and emotional instability are also factors that result in vulnerability to DPP syndrome.

Previous depression history indicates a genetic and psychological vulnerability that can trigger the emergence of DPP syndrome. The study also found that there was no significant difference in DPP syndrome based on age, marital status, income, number of children, and family history. This means that these factors have no significant effect on the emergence of DPP syndrome.

Conclusion

This research is a clear proof that DPP syndrome is a serious mental health issue and requires serious attention. By understanding risk factors and developing appropriate prevention strategies, we can reduce the prevalence of DPP syndrome and provide adequate support for mothers after delivery in enjoying a happier and healthier maternal journey.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Early screening and diagnosis: Healthcare providers should screen all postpartum mothers for DPP syndrome using the EPDS questionnaire.
Education and awareness: Healthcare providers should educate postpartum mothers about the risks and symptoms of DPP syndrome.
Support and counseling: Healthcare providers should provide support and counseling to postpartum mothers who are experiencing DPP syndrome.
Workplace support: Employers should provide support and accommodations to postpartum mothers who are returning to work.
Social support: Healthcare providers should encourage postpartum mothers to seek social support from family and friends.

Limitations

This study had several limitations, including:

Small sample size: The study involved only 50 post-delivery mothers.
Limited generalizability: The study was conducted in a single hospital in Medan, Indonesia, and may not be generalizable to other populations.
Cross-sectional design: The study used a cross-sectional design, which may not capture the longitudinal course of DPP syndrome.

Future Directions

Future studies should aim to:

Recruit a larger sample size: Future studies should recruit a larger sample size to increase the generalizability of the findings.
Use a longitudinal design: Future studies should use a longitudinal design to capture the longitudinal course of DPP syndrome.
Explore other risk factors: Future studies should explore other risk factors for DPP syndrome, such as hormonal changes and sleep disturbances.

By understanding the risk factors and developing appropriate prevention strategies, we can reduce the prevalence of DPP syndrome and provide adequate support for mothers after delivery in enjoying a happier and healthier maternal journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Postpartum Depression Syndrome

Q: What is postpartum depression syndrome (DPP)?

A: Postpartum depression syndrome (DPP) is a mental health condition that affects women after childbirth, characterized by feelings of sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness.

Q: How common is DPP?

A: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), postpartum depression affects approximately 1 in 7 women worldwide.

Q: What are the risk factors for DPP?

A: The risk factors for DPP include:

Work groups
Education level
Psychosocial stressor
Previous depression history

Q: What are the symptoms of DPP?

A: The symptoms of DPP include:

Feelings of sadness and hopelessness
Anxiety and fear
Loss of interest in activities
Changes in appetite and sleep
Difficulty bonding with the baby

Q: How is DPP diagnosed?

A: DPP is diagnosed using a combination of clinical evaluation and screening tools, such as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS).

Q: What is the treatment for DPP?

A: The treatment for DPP includes:

Counseling and therapy
Medication
Support groups
Lifestyle changes, such as exercise and healthy eating

Q: Can DPP be prevented?

A: While there is no surefire way to prevent DPP, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk, such as:

Getting regular exercise
Eating a healthy diet
Getting enough sleep
Seeking social support
Avoiding stress and anxiety

Q: How can I support a friend or family member who is experiencing DPP?

A: You can support a friend or family member who is experiencing DPP by:

Listening to them without judgment
Encouraging them to seek professional help
Offering to help with household chores and childcare
Being patient and understanding

Q: Can DPP affect men?

A: While DPP is more common in women, men can also experience postpartum depression, known as postpartum depression in men (PPDM).

Q: How long does DPP last?

A: DPP can last for several months, but with proper treatment and support, it is possible to recover and return to a healthy and happy life.

Q: Can DPP be a sign of other underlying mental health conditions?

A: Yes, DPP can be a sign of other underlying mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.

Q: How can I get help for DPP?

A: If you are experiencing symptoms of DPP, you can get help by:

Contacting your healthcare provider
Reaching out to a mental health professional
Calling a helpline, such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) helpline
Joining a support group

Remember, you are not alone, and there is help available. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of DPP, don't hesitate to reach out for support.