Philippine E-Journals

Predisposing Factors and Psychological Distress among Postpartum Mothers

Ma. Cherry Julie D. Alba | Rammony Belle R. Viloria | Ms. Anne Christine Braga

 

Abstract:

Being a mother is a lifetime responsibility, thus mothers are expected to be physically and mentally capable than any other. However, mothers after giving birth are susceptible to psychological distress that affects their mental health. This study examined if there is a significant relationship between predisposing factors (age, educational attainment, civil status and duration after giving birth) and psychological distress of the postpartum mothers. Two-hundred and eighty-five postpartum mothers, both in- and out-patients from the Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital participated in this study. Demographic profile, predisposing factors and psychological distress were obtained, using a demographic profile sheet and the Filipino version of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21). Mild to moderate level of psychological distress were reported by the postpartum mothers who participated in this study. It was found that only duration had a significant difference among the predisposing factors while others (such as age, educational attainment and civil status) had no significant difference at all.