EXPLORING THE LIVED EXPERIENCES OF POSTPURTUM DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY AMONG WOMEN LIVING IN BENIN CITY, EDO STATE NIGERIA

Abstract

Postpartum depression (PPD) and postpartum anxiety (PPA) are prevalent and debilitating mental health conditions affecting approximately 10–20% of women worldwide, with disproportionately higher rates in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria. These conditions do not only impair maternal functioning but also affect infant development and the overall family dynamic. This study which aimed to explore the lived experiences of postpartum women in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, is the qualitative strand of a larger convergent parallel mixed-methods study. A descriptive phenomenological research design with purposive sampling was adopted. Using semi-structured in-depth interviews, 12 women attending postpartum clinics in three major healthcare facilities: the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Central Hospital, and St. Philomena Catholic Hospital, all in Benin City, Edo State, were interviewed. Analysis was done using thematic data analysis. The results revealed and were summarized into five main themes with four subthemes each: (1) Emotional Struggles, encompassing subthemes of overwhelm and sadness, anxiety and worry, isolation and loneliness, and loss of identity; (2) Coping Mechanisms, encompassing subthemes of faith and spirituality, emotional release, social support, and self-care; (3) Cultural Influences, encompassing subthemes of stigma and silence, religious beliefs, traditional practices, and gender expectations; (4) Support Systems, encompassing subthemes of spousal, family, peer, and healthcare support; and (5) Recovery Outcomes, encompassing subthemes of emotional growth, improved bonding, lingering struggles, and advocacy for others. The findings from this study underscores the importance of the postpartum period for women highlighting emotional challenges, coping strategies, cultural factors, and the critical role of family and spousal support. It emphasizes the need for routine screening, structured maternal mental health education, family-centered interventions, and culturally sensitive policies to enhance postpartum mental health outcomes in urban Nigerian settings.