Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and its association with postpartum depression (PPD) among postpartum women in Taif, Saudi Arabia, to inform targeted interventions.
Methods: The study involved 100 postpartum women, including 55 recently diagnosed with GDM. Data on demographics, GDM and postpartum type-2 diabetes diagnoses, and PPD scores were gathered through a questionnaire.
Results: The majority of participants were Saudi nationals (97%), aged 26-35 years (41%), and had a normal body mass index (45%). The prevalence of GDM was found to be 55%. Although the adherence rate to GDM therapy was observed at 87.3%, a significant number (56.4%) did not undergo postpartum testing for type-2 diabetes. The prevalence of PPD was 43%, with an average Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale score of 12.5 ± 6.3. Among the participants, 36% showed a positive suicidal risk. No significant differences in PPD prevalence were noted between those with and without GDM. However, participants aged 18-25 years had a higher suicidal risk (41.7%, p-value = 0.044), as did those with a shorter time since their last delivery (p-value = 0.046).
Conclusion: This study highlighted significant GDM rates in Taif City and a complex relationship between GDM and postpartum mental health. Culturally sensitive approaches to maternal mental health are crucial. Further research is needed to understand the interplay of sociodemographic factors, GDM, and postpartum mental health.
Key words: Gestational diabetes mellitus, postpartum depression, suicidal risk, Saudi Arabia, maternal mental health
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