Antepartum depression and its predictors among pregnant adolescents in the northern part of Nigeria

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Background: Antepartum depression is a major public health issue, particularly among adolescents in low and middle-income countries, where early marriage and limited education are common. Although the religious and cultural beliefs in northern Nigeria concerning early marriage are common knowledge which prompted this study. Information on the predictors and prevalence of antepartum depression is limited. The study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of antepartum depression among pregnant adolescents in Kaduna state, north-western part of Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional design was used. Data was collected using a structured interviewer administered questionnaire among 349 pregnant adolescents attending antenatal clinics at six selected health facilities from January to May 2019. Depression was screened using the Edinburgh post-natal depression scale (EPDS≥13). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, means and percentages, and logistic regression was used for predictors of antepartum depression. P value was set at <0.05. Results: Mean age of pregnant adolescents was 16.6±1.4 years, with a mean age at marriage of 13.7±2.4 years. Prevalence of antepartum depression was 54.7% with EPDS score of ≥13. Adolescents with secondary education had 53% lower likelihood of depression compared to those without formal education (aOR=0.47; 95% CI: 0.25-0.89; p=0.020). Conclusions: Antepartum depression is common among pregnant teenagers in northern Nigeria, especially those who haven’t finished school. Integrating routine mental health screenings and evaluations into antenatal care services and educational empowerment is essential for improving maternal mental health outcomes in this vulnerable population.

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