Knowledge of postpartum depression and its management among midwives in Jaffna district, Sri Lanka: a descriptive cross-sectional study

Postpartum depression (PPD) affects approximately 10–15% of women following childbirth and poses significant risks to maternal well-being, infant development, and family health. Midwives play a crucial role in the early identification and management of PPD at the community level. This study aimed to describe the knowledge of midwives regarding postpartum depression and its management and to determine factors associated with knowledge levels among midwives in the Jaffna district, Sri Lanka. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 215 midwives in the Jaffna district. Of the 215 eligible midwives, 186 responded (response rate: 86.5%). Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire comprising sections on socio-demographic characteristics, service-related factors, and knowledge regarding PPD and its management. The questionnaire was developed by the researcher with guidance from supervisors, reviewed for clarity and relevance, and pretested among five midwives who were not included in the main study. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participant characteristics and knowledge levels, while inferential statistics were used to determine associations between knowledge levels and selected variables. The total knowledge score was converted into a percentage and categorized using commonly applied KAP knowledge-score cut-off criteria: good knowledge level (80–100%), moderate knowledge level (60–79%), and poor knowledge level (< 60%). The majority of participants were aged 31–40 years and had completed Advanced Level midwifery training. Over half of the midwives demonstrated a moderate level of knowledge regarding PPD. Knowledge levels were significantly associated with age, educational level, years of professional experience, and PPD-related training or practical experience ( p < 0.05). Higher proportions of good knowledge were observed among midwives aged 36–50 years, those with diploma-level education, and those with ≤ 10 years of professional experience. Although most midwives demonstrated moderate knowledge of PPD, gaps remain in certain areas of recognition and management. Targeted educational interventions and continuous professional development programs are recommended to strengthen midwives’ capacity to identify and manage PPD effectively, thereby improving maternal mental health outcomes in the region. Not applicable.