ASSOCIATION OF MATERNAL DEPRESSION WITH GROWTH OF INFANTS OF LESS THAN 06 MONTHS OF AGE

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To determine the association between maternal postpartum depression and the growth of infants attending a tertiary care Paediatrics OPD in Karachi.

METHODOLOGY: This cross-sectional research was conducted from July 2023 to July 2024 in the Paediatrics Outpatient Department of The Indus Hospital, Karachi. A total of 123 mothers with infants who are below six months were enrolled consecutively. Maternal depression was assessed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, and infant growth was evaluated with WHO and INTERGROWTH-21st references. Data were analysed in SPSS version 26 using Chi-square tests, with significance defined at p < 0.05.

RESULTS: Among 123 participating mothers, 48% were identified with postpartum depression, including 27% with mild to moderate and 21% with severe symptoms. Maternal depression showed significant associations with lower family income (p=0.010), nuclear household type (p=0.002), preterm births (p=0.000), incomplete immunization (p=0.000), and absence of exclusive breastfeeding (p=0.000). All infants of severely depressed mothers were malnourished, whereas those of non-depressed mothers maintained normal growth (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION: The study demonstrated that maternal postpartum depression significantly affects the nutritional and growth outcomes of infants under six months of age. Higher depression scores were associated with preterm birth, poor immunization, and lack of exclusive breastfeeding, leading to increased malnourishment among affected infants. These findings highlight the importance of integrating maternal mental health assessment into routine paediatric care to promote early identification, intervention, and improved infant growth and well-being.