KNOWLEDGE AND AWARENESS OF PUERPERAL PSYCHOSIS AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN ATTENDING ANTENATAL CLINIC IN EDO STATE UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL AUCHI, EDO STATE.
Abstract
Title: Knowledge and Awareness of Puerperal Psychosis among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinic in Edo State University Teaching Hospital, Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria.
Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness of Puerperal psychosis among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Edo State University Teaching Hospital, Auchi, Nigeria. Additionally, it sought to explore the perceived causes of Puerperal psychosis and the relationship between knowledge and awareness.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted, involving 108 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in the study hospital. A structured questionnaire comprising Likert scale questions was administered to collect data on knowledge, awareness, and perceived causes of Puerperal psychosis. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results: The findings revealed a notable lack of knowledge among pregnant women regarding the early signs and symptoms of Puerperal psychosis, with many unable to recognize them. Furthermore, most participants were unaware of available treatment options and displayed reluctance to discuss mental health concerns, including Puerperal psychosis, with healthcare providers. Despite these knowledge gaps, a significant proportion of respondents were aware of other pregnant women who had experienced or been diagnosed with Puerperal psychosis, indicating that this condition is not uncommon in the community. The study also highlighted the influence of social support and stress as contributing factors to the onset of Puerperal psychosis.
Conclusion: The study underscores the pressing need for enhanced education and awareness programs targeting pregnant women to improve their understanding of Puerperal psychosis. Additionally, creating a supportive environment for open communication with healthcare providers is essential to ensure timely intervention and support. The findings emphasize the importance of addressing maternal mental health within antenatal care and underscore the potential benefits of interventions that provide education, emotional support, and early recognition of Puerperal psychosis.
Keywords: Puerperal psychosis, maternal mental health, antenatal care, awareness, knowledge, Puerperium.
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