| This dissertation examines the prevalence and risk factors of postnatal depression among Hong Kong Chinese women. Nine hundred fifty-nine consecutive women were prospectively studied from antenatal booking to three months postpartum. As far as possible, putative risk factors were measured during the pregnancy. The prevalence and incidence rates of postnatal depression were measured using a two-stage design. At three months postpartum, all participants completed the 12-item General Health Questionnaire, and all high scorers were subsequently assessed using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-III-R. About 10% of low scorers were also assessed in the same manner.;The results showed that 11% of women suffered from postnatal depression (DSM major or minor depression) during the first three months of postpartum. Women with postnatal depression were more likely to have concurrent life events, poorer social support, past history of deliberate self harm, past medical history, unsatisfactory marital relationship and failed breast feeding. Cultural issues also shaped the experience of the postpartum women. Participants who had poor in-law relationship or had not received peiyue care (mandated postpartum support) were more likely to be depressed at three months postpartum.;Whilst a few studies suggested postnatal depression was rare in Chinese societies, the present study shows that postnatal depression is common among contemporary Chinese women. The results also confirm the hypothesis that the traditional postpartum custom of peiyue is associated with lower risk of postnatal depression. Finally, in Chinese societies, both spousal and in-law relationships shape the maternal psychological well being. |
