Prevalence of postpartum depression and associated factors among partners of pregnant women attending family health centers in antalya

ABSTRACT Objective: The transition to parenthood brings significant changes for both mothers and fathers. Despite historical research focusing on maternal postnatal mental health, paternal postnatal depression (PPPD) is gaining increasing recognition. Men's distinct ways of expressing depression (e.g., anger, risk-taking) and inadequate screening, diagnosis, and treatment make this topic critical. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of PPPD and its influencing factors in Türkiye. Method: This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with 204 partners of pregnant individuals attending Family Health Centers in Antalya. Participants, aged 18 and over, were voluntarily included. Data were collected face-to-face using a sociodemographic form and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). The EPDS was administered to mothers during the first 3 months and to fathers during both the first 3 months and the 3-6 month postpartum periods. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 25.0, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results: Mothers' mean EPDS score at 3 months postpartum was 7.7±4.9, with %25.0 showing depressive symptoms. Fathers' mean EPDS score at 3 months was 5.8±3.7, with %15.7 showing depressive symptoms. This rate decreased to %9.3 for fathers at 3-6 months. A history of psychiatric illness, unplanned pregnancy, and not feeling prepared for parenthood significantly increased depression risk in both mothers and fathers. Additionally, fathers with a history of miscarriage showed a significantly higher prevalence of depression in the first 3 months. Unexpectedly, fathers actively involved in childcare had higher 3-month EPDS scores than those not involved. Conclusion: PPPD prevalence in Turkish fathers aligns with global averages and tends to decrease over time. Findings indicate that a history of psychiatric illness, unplanned pregnancy, and feeling unprepared for parenthood are strong risk factors for both parents. The impact of miscarriage history on fathers' mental health is also significant. The higher depression scores among actively involved fathers suggest additional burdens associated with this role. These results underscore the critical need for couple-centered mental health approaches and early intervention for identified risk factors during the perinatal period. Keywords: Paternal postnatal depression, PPPD, postnatal depression, EPDS, risk factors, Türkiye, perinatal mental health.