Beside Somatization Symptoms Post-Partum Depression Symptoms are Expressed
Abstract
Post-Partum depression affects majority of women following childbirth. This qualitative study explored the lived experience of post-partum depression among Nigerian women. Rich descriptions of 24 women experience of PPD were collected through individual in-depth interviews. Three themes were identified: ‘Missed diagnosis of depression’ ‘Suffering in silence’ and ‘Defining depression’. The findings suggested that depressive symptoms were not readily recognized and women suffered delays in accessing prompt medical care. Positive aspect of PPD were highlighted. Implications for nursing practices suggests increased need for re-orientation on the signs and symptoms of depression in relation to African context. Post-partum depression in African women is a disorder that may hide under another tropical ailment. Health care professionals can play a key role in assisting this population of women through proper screening, diagnosis and support for the women, their families and the community.
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