Prevalence and risk factors related to postpartum depression among women after giving birth in a mountainous area of Vietnam

Previous studies have revealed a high risk of postpartum depression (PPD) associated with various factors globally, particularly among ethnic minority groups and women in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas. This study aims to identify the prevalence of PPD and the contributing risk factors among women after giving birth in a mountainous area of Vietnam. A cross-sectional study utilizing a self-designed questionnaire survey was conducted in four communes in Son La city and Quynh Nhai district, Son La province, Vietnam. Data collection included sociodemographic, obstetric, and perception-related factors, with PPD assessed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) with a cut-off score of ≥ 12. Of the 194 qualified responses, 87.6% were from minority groups, and 71.1% resided in rural areas. The prevalence of PPD among the participants was 33.5%, with 11.9% of women reporting occasional suicidal thoughts. Multiple linear regression analysis identified several significant predictors of PPD: living in rural areas, lower monthly household income, fewer periodic health examinations, alcohol consumption, perceived infant excessive crying, poor PPD-related practices, and negative perceptions of PPD. The high prevalence of PPD among new mothers in mountainous areas of Vietnam highlights the urgent need for targeted health interventions. Future studies should focus on modifiable factors to implement health education programs that promote community awareness about PPD. Improving antenatal care access and mental health support for vulnerable groups is crucial to mitigating PPD risks.