Perinatal depression high in Malawi—study

Over 18 percent of Malawian women suffer perinatal depression within 12 months after giving birth, a study by St John of God Hospitaller has revealed.

The research was conducted at Area 25 Primary Health Care Centre and Kabudula Community Hospital in Lilongwe.

Speaking during the 30th anniversary of St John of God Hospitaller in Lilongwe yesterday, St John of God programmes manager Mwawi Ng’oma said the research further found that the local perinatal depression rates are higher than global rates, attributing the challenge to multiple problems pregnant women face.

“World over, 11 percent of women suffer perinatal depression. In Africa, the prevalence is very high and specifically in Malawi, over 18 percent of mothers suffer perinatal depression,” she said.

Ng’oma said the condition manifests itself with signs of low mood, feeling of worthlessness, loss of interest in pleasurable activities and appetite.

“Others feel agitated while others become overly dormant,” she stated.

St John of God Hospitaller board member Lilian Chirwa said mental health services are limited in the country; hence, the need to increase access even in public health facilities.

“We need to have various opportunities for people to access mental health services in our communities, including mainstreaming the same in maternal health service delivery,” she said.

Ministry of Health mental health desk officer Michael Uledi said they are advocating for the integration of mental health in all healthcare services to increase access to mental health services.

“Currently, we have a Mental Health Policy as well as the Health Sector Strategic Plan III which are focusing on integration of mental health services,” he said.

Uledi added that mental health issues are part of the cause of suicide whose cases are on the rise in the country.

Perinatal depression includes depression that begins during pregnancy, called prenatal depression and depression that begins after the baby is born, called postpartum depression.