Determinants of Prenatal Depression in Teenage Pregnant Women: A Comparative Study of Urban and Rural Settings in Lusaka Province, Zambia

Abstract

Background: Perinatal depression manifests during or after pregnancy, with prenatal depression occurring during pregnancy. Traditionally, research has focused more on postpartum depression, with less attention on prenatal depression among teenagers. Objective: This study aims to examine the correlates of prenatal depression among teenage pregnant women aged 13 to 17 and to explore the relationship between these factors and depression. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a university teaching hospital and a rural health facility, involving 105 pregnant teenagers. Initial screenings to assess depression were performed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, complemented by psychosocial evaluations with the Perceived Stress Scale and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS version 20, employing both descriptive and inferential statistical methods to interpret the findings. Results: Significant factors influencing prenatal depression included attempts to abort, stress, social support, household income, education level, and marital status. Logistic regression confirmed the significance of these correlates. Conclusion: Multiple factors influence prenatal depression in teenage pregnant women. The findings highlight the need for targeted preventive care and early interventions by medical professionals to improve health outcomes for mothers and infants.