A Comparative Study to Assess Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale Score in COVID-19 Vaccinated and Non-vaccinated Postpartum Women

Background: Postnatal depression (PND) remains a critical public health challenge, especially in developing regions.With the emergence of COVID-19, understanding how the pandemic and vaccination status influence maternal mental health has become essential.Materials and methods: This 6-month case-control study, conducted in outpatient departments and postnatal wards, screened 132 women (aged 18-40) who delivered healthy singleton infants.The Edinburgh postpartum depression scale (EPDS) was utilized for assessment.The cohort comprised 76 vaccinated participants (two doses) and 56 unvaccinated controls.Results: Probable depression (EPDS > 11) was identified in 30.3% of the total sample.Higher EPDS scores were notably prevalent among multiparous women (80%) and those 2 weeks postpartum (25%).Conversely, spousal presence and domestic support were associated with lower scores.While a family history of mental illness significantly increased PND risk, univariate analysis showed that vaccinated women were 4.5 times more likely to have lower EPDS scores (≤11).Multivariate regression confirmed that COVID-19 vaccination served as a protective factor against postnatal depression.Conclusion: Vaccinated mothers reported lower EPDS scores, suggesting that the COVID-19 vaccine may support better mental health during the postpartum period.Enhancing vaccine uptake and mental health resources together can improve overall maternal well-being.Impact-focused-key takeaway: Data suggest that COVID-19 vaccination serves as a protective factor for maternal mental health.By prioritizing both vaccination coverage and psychosocial services, we can more effectively safeguard the mental health of new mothers.