WORLD JOURNAL OF ADVANCE
HEALTHCARE RESEARCH

Sally Ali Hussain* and Youssef Abdulraheem Abdulghafor

ABSTRACT

Background: Postpartum depression is critical mental health issue affecting new mothers impacting maternal well-being, infant development, and family dynamics. In low- and middle-income countries like Iraq, PPD remains underdiagnosed due to stigma, lack of awareness, and limited healthcare access. Objectives: This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding postpartum depression among primiparous pregnant women attending primary healthcare centers in Baghdad, identifying gaps in awareness, perceptions, and healthcare-seeking behaviors to improve maternal mental health services. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 among 400 primiparous pregnant women attending four primary healthcare centers in Baghdad. Data were collected through structured interviews using a questionnaire on sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to PPD. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. Results: Among participants, 49% had fair knowledge about postpartum depression, 28.7% good and 22.3% poor. Misconceptions were common, with 70% believing PPD does not require treatment. Attitudes were 48.8% neutral, 24.3% negative, and 27% positive. In practice, 54.3% exhibited positive behaviors, 38.3% neutral, and 7.5% negative. Significant associations were found between age, marital status, education, and attitudes, but not with knowledge or practice. Conclusion: Despite general awareness, misconceptions and stigma hinder early recognition and intervention. Targeted education, integration of mental health services, and community support programs are essential for improving postpartum depression detection and treatment in Iraq.