Health and Medical Psychology Clinical Psychology Health and Medical Humanities

Nurse-Midwives’ Attitudes Regarding Postpartum Depression: A Cross-Sectional Study

Postpartum Depression Nurse-Midwives Attitude Mental Health Awareness Iraq

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Vol. 12 No. 6 (2025): September
Quantitative Study(ies)

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Objective: Mothers who experience postpartum depression do so for two weeks to three months or longer after giving birth.  After giving birth, the mother's body experiences hormonal changes that affect her mood. The postpartum phase is characterized by significant emotional and physical changes that might cause anxiety and mood swings.  This study aims to assess the level of nurse-midwives’ attitudes regarding postpartum depression and to determine the relationship between the level of nurse-midwives ’attitudes regarding postpartum depression and their socio-demographic characteristics.

Methods and Materials: Descriptive Correlational Study Design conducted from 15th October 2024 through 1st July 2025, (153) Nurse-Midwives who were working in delivery rooms and postnatal wards included. Information was gathered through interviews using an instrument and analyzed using SPSS version 22, employing both descriptive and inferential statistics.

Findings: The results showed that a higher proportion of the studied sample (59.5%) held a positive attitude towards PPD, and those holding higher educational qualifications exhibited more favourable attitudes towards PPD. Additionally, familiarity with postpartum mental health issues was significantly associated with attitudes (χ2=5.346, p=0.021), with those who were familiar with these issues showing more positive attitudes.

Conclusion: Attitudes were positive, but a significant portion still holds negative or neutral views, which could impact the standard of care given to women experiencing PPD.This study recommends developing comprehensive educational programs, enhancing attitudinal awareness, and addressing stigma.