The prevalence of depression and intimate partner violence against pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at Kenyatta National Hospital

Abstract

Background: The incidence of IPV is high in Africa while depression is a major concern in developing countries. Mental health and women’s well-being are still a major challenge in Kenya. Problem Statement: There is a paucity of published scientific literature on depression and IPV in pregnant women in Kenya. Broad Objective: To determine the association of depression and IPV in pregnant women. Specific Objectives: 1). to determine the prevalence of depression among pregnant women attending the ANC and 2). to determine the prevalence of IPV among pregnant women in the same study group Methodology: A cross-sectional analytic quantitative design was used to recruit a sample size of 324 ANC patients at KNH, Nairobi. Systematic random sampling was used to select the respondents. The Sociodemographic, Depression and IPV Data collected through the use of a structured questionnaire, PHQ-9 and WHO IPV instrument. SPSS used for statistical analysis. Results presented in tables, charts and narratives. Results: The prevalence of antenatal depression was (91) 29%; prevalence of IPV was (52) 16%. There was an association between antenatal depression and IPV (p = 0.033). Discussion: This study’s findings revealed that exposure to spousal violence during pregnancy is a risk factor for antenatal depression. Conclusion: In Kenya, women are at risk of developing antenatal depression and experiencing IPV in pregnancy, both leading to detrimental health effects. Recommendations: 1). Provision of GBV and SRH follow up care services at the ANC. 2). Free IPV services to be implemented to completion by KNH and Ministry of Health. 3). Involving mass media in disseminating GBVRC information. 4). Psychological interventions to be implemented such as marital therapy for couples and interpersonal therapy for unmarried women experiencing IPV. 5). Need to increase regular assessments of mental illnesses in Primary Health Care Setting.