Prevalence of prenatal depression and associated factors among HIV-positive women in primary care in Mpumalanga province, South Africa

• Main Authors: Karl Peltzer, Violeta J. Rodriguez, Deborah Jones
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Taylor & Francis Group 2016-01-01
• Series: SAHARA-J
• Subjects: antenatal care; HIV positive; pregnant women; depressive symptoms; Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale 10; South Africa
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/17290376.2016.1189847
• ISSN: 1729-0376; 1813-4424

This study aimed to assess the prevalence of depressed symptoms and associated factors in prenatal HIV-positive women in primary care facilities in rural South Africa. In a cross-sectional study, 663 HIV-positive prenatal women in 12 community health centres in Mpumalanga province, South Africa, were recruited by systematic sampling (every consecutive patient after HIV post-test counselling). Results indicate that overall, 48.7% [95% CI: 44.8, 52.6] of women during the prenatal period reported depressed mood (scores of ≥ 13 on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale 10). In multivariate analysis, not being employed, unplanned pregnancy, not having an HIV-positive child, poor antiretroviral therapy adherence, non-condom use at last sex, and intimate partner violence were associated with depressive symptoms. Potential risk factors among HIV-infected prenatal women were identified which could be utilized in interventions. Routine screening for depression may be integrated into prenatal care settings.