Assessment of Postpartum Depression and Coping Strategies among Women of Reproductive Age in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State

Abstract:

Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a major public health issue affecting maternal and child health globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Despite its high burden, the use of effective coping strategies for managing PPD remains limited. Aim: This study assessed the prevalence of PPD and the coping strategies among women of reproductive age in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 pregnant women with previous childbirth experience in a selected primary Health Centre, Ado-Ekiti, Southwestern Nigeria, using consecutive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) developed by Cox et al, and the Ways of Coping Questionnaire developed by Lazarus and Folkway. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and interpretive analysis of coping patterns. Results: Participants were predominantly aged 25-29 years (34.9%) and married (76.0%), with most having a tertiary education (78.7%). The mean EPDS score was 16.4 , indicating that a substantial proportion of respondents experienced moderate to severe postpartum depressive symptoms. High prevalence includes self-blame (62.6%), sleep disturbances (60.0%), sadness (60.0%), frequent crying (64.0%), and, notably, self-harm ideation (80.0%), representing a critical clinical concern. Coping strategies were predominantly emotion-focused, with high use of escape-avoidance (54.7%), distancing (52.0%), self-controlling (51.3%), and accepting responsibility (self-blame: 63.3%), showing a reliance on internalized, potentially maladaptive coping mechanisms. However, seeking social support (60.0%) and positive reappraisal (52.0%) reflected some adaptive coping capacity. Conclusion: The study reveals a high burden of postpartum depression alongside a mixed coping profile dominated by maladaptive strategies. The presence of self-harm ideas and avoidance-based coping underscore the need for urgent routine screening, early identification, and integration of mental health services into maternal care.