Postpartum depression and its psychosocial determinants in first-time fathers

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine postpartum depression and psychosocial determinants in fathers for the first time. Materials and Methods: The research was conducted in relational descriptive type. The study sample, a province in eastern Turkey, located in the central district connected to two different Family Health Center registered in the postpartum period (3-6 months), which has created 250 father. The data were collected with a Personal Information Form, Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS), Trait Anxiety Scale, and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to examine the predictors of postpartum depression. Results: In the study, it was determined that 18.8% (n = 42) of fathers had a risk of postpartum depression (EPDS >= 12). There was a positive correlation between postpartum depression and trait anxiety in fathers, and a negative significant relationship between depression and social support and social support sub-dimensions (family, friends, and private person). Regression analysis showed that trait anxiety, social support, and family social support were important determinants of postpartum depression in fathers. Conclusion: Findings show that high anxiety level, insufficient social support and insufficient family support are important determinants of depression in postpartum fathers. To reduce the risk of depression in postpartum fathers, relieving their anxiety and increasing their social support may help.