A social and Biological Approach for Postpartum Depression in Egypt

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a major health problem that affects many women worldwide. In Egypt, PPD is neglected despite the expected high prevalence rate among women during the transition period after the Egyptian revolution. This research investigated the prevalence, risk factors, and interventions of postpartum depression in southern rural Egypt. Interviews were conducted with 57 participants recruited from public and private hospitals. Questionnaires and the Arabic version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale were administered. The prevalence of PPD was found to be 73.7% and is associated with low income and age at childbirth. Most participants regarded screening mothers after childbirth for PPD as an effective way to detect and intervene in PPD; in comparison to, antidepressants that were regarded by most participants as ineffective. Furthermore, in an effort to assess the cultural-suitability of prescribing antidepressants for PPD in such communities, where high pregnancy rate is favored, we examined the biological influence of Sertraline, a widely prescribed antidepressant medication, on the FSH and LH gene expression and discussed its possible effects on fertility based on our results.