Nurse-Midwives’ Attitudes Toward Postpartum Depression: A Correlational Cross-Sectional Study in Iraq

Objective: This study aimed to assess nurse-midwives’ attitudes toward postpartum depression (PPD) and to examine the relationship between their attitudes and socio-demographic factors, including education, experience, and familiarity with mental health concepts.

Methods and Materials: A descriptive correlational study was conducted between October 15, 2024, and July 1, 2025, in three hospitals in Babil Governorate, Iraq. A purposive sample of 153 nurse-midwives working in labor and postnatal units participated. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire comprising two parts: (1) socio-demographic and work-related variables, and (2) a 13-item attitude scale scored using a three-point Likert scale (agree, partially agree, disagree). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23.

Findings: The mean age of participants was 34.68 years, with 50.3% holding an institute diploma and 42.5% having more than 10 years of experience. Overall, 59.5% demonstrated positive attitudes toward PPD. Higher educational attainment was significantly associated with more favorable attitudes (χ² = 7.766, p = 0.043). Additionally, participants familiar with postpartum mental health issues showed significantly more positive attitudes (χ² = 5.346, p = 0.021). However, 60.1% had never participated in PPD screening, and 69.9% were unfamiliar with the term “baby blues,” indicating a gap between general awareness and clinical engagement.

Conclusion: While nurse-midwives’ overall attitudes toward PPD were generally positive, substantial gaps in knowledge and involvement remain. Educational background and prior mental health exposure significantly influenced attitudes. Integrating targeted mental health education and routine PPD screening protocols into clinical practice is recommended to enhance care quality.