2024, Vol. 6, Issue 2, Part A

Background: Depression is a global health problem and is considered one of the leading causes of disability adjusted life years (DALYs) worldwide and regionally. It is projected to become one of the top three causes of DALYs lost by 2030. The study aims to determine the prevalence of antenatal depression among pregnant teenage mothers in Baghdad, Iraq, and to identify the determinants of antenatal depression in pregnant teenage mothers.

Methods: In this study, a cross-sectional study with an analytic component design was conducted in ten randomly selected primary health care centers for family medicine in Baghdad after obtaining ethical approval to conduct the study. Data were collected using a direct interview questionnaire and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). A total of 304 pregnant teenagers were included in the study.

Results: The prevalence of antenatal depression among pregnant teenage mothers was 44.4%. Significant associations were found between antenatal depression and sociodemographic characteristics such as the older age of the mother’s husband, low socioeconomic status, low literacy level, mother-of-the-housewife, and rural areas. Obstetric factors including the first months of pregnancy, the history of previous caesarean sections, and more complications during pregnancy were also significantly associated with antenatal depression. Additionally, a history of psychological and behavioral disorders such as smoking, exposure to domestic violence, and a personal and family history of psychological disorders showed significant associations with antenatal depression.

Conclusion: The study provides valuable information on the prevalence and determinants of antenatal depression among teenage pregnant mothers in Baghdad, Iraq. And the findings emphasize the need for comprehensive antenatal care programs in PHCCs that address the determinants of antenatal depression. By implementing these recommendations, healthcare professionals can improve the mental health outcomes of pregnant teenagers and their babies.