ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE OF MOTHERS ATTENDING OKEMAPO PRIMARY HEALTH CENTRE OWO ON POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a prevalent mental health disorder that affects women after giving birth. It is characterized by persistent sadness, a loss of interest, and a diminished sense of pleasure. The study examined the knowledge and attitude of mothers attending Oke Mapo Primary Health Center Owo, Ondo State on postpartum depression. The study employed a descriptive non-experimental research. One hundred and forty-four (144) pregnant women responded to the study using convenience random sampling technique. A structured questionnaire adopted from previous study was used to collect data. Descriptive data was analysed using frequency and percentage. Inferential data was analyse using ChiSquare at P < 0.05. The study revealed that 65(45.1%) of the respondents had good knowledge about postpartum depression, while the remaining 79(54.9%) had poor knowledge. However, 76.6% of the respondents had positive attitude towards the care they received from postpartum depression. The study also revealed there were varying beliefs about the nature of postpartum depression, with some considering it a spiritual problem and others viewing it as normal. Based on the findings of this research study and the information gathered, the study concluded that the need of health workers to provide necessary health education to mothers is essential and encouraged family member involvement in postnatal care should be emphasized. It is recommended that Healthcare facilities should implement targeted educational programs aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of postpartum depression among pregnant mothers.