Postpartum Depression as a Factor Associated with Cessation of Breastfeeding

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence of postpartum depression and its association with the cessation of breastfeeding. Methods: cross-sectional and analytical study that took place during January and February 2018, in the Family Medicine Unit (fmu) No. 1 from Pachuca Hidalgo, Mexico, of the Mexican Social Security Institute (imss). The Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale was applied to evaluate the presence of postpartum depression, and a card with demographic data for the identification of breastfeeding cessation in 93 women of childbearing age with resolution of their pregnancy no more than a year. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) and inferential statistics (prevalence ratio). Results: 30.1% (28) showed postpartum depression and of these twelve ceased lactation (42.8%). Postpartum depression women were 3.3 times more likely to leave breastfeeding. Conclusion: The association between postpartum depression and the cessation of breastfeeding was found. It is necessary to strengthen a timely detection of postpartum depression and to continue promoting breastfeeding.