The Relationship between Level of Social Support and the Development of Postpartum Depression among Women in Pumwani Maternity Hospital in Nairobi County

Studies around the world indicate that social support is one of the protective factors that guard against postpartum depression (PPD) yet little is known regarding women’s perceptions of sources or forms of support following childbirth in Nairobi County. The current study purposed to explore social support available for women and its function in preventing PPD. One hundred and twenty-three mothers were approached while waiting in line for postnatal clinic at Pumwani maternity hospital. Each participant completed an interview that included a socio-demographic section, social support section and finally a depression inventory section. The results indicate a weak relationship between social support and the presence of PPD. On examining partner support, which emerged as the highest-ranking source of support for the women, it was discovered that the relationship between social support and PPD when looking specifically at partner support was stronger than the combined social support. The findings also revealed that women living in Nairobi County receive more emotional support from all sources (partners, parents, parents-in-law, and relatives and friends) and less instrumental support. The preference of the women is to receive more instrumental help, which pertains to help with caring for the baby and managing the family. Further analysis demonstrated that the nature of the pregnancy could indeed impact that amount of support especially from partners. Women who recorded having planned pregnancies received more partner support than those who reported having unplanned pregnancies. This research suggests that social support is an important factor that can be utilized to guard against the development of PPD. These findings inform preventive programs and intervention programs in the physical as well as mental health sector.