Maternal Depression in Rural Bangladesh: A mixed methods exploration of the social determinants and their role in delivery and uptake of...

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... mental health care.BackgroundMaternal mental health is increasingly recognised as a worldwide public health issue, with approximately 10% of pregnant women experiencing some sort of mental health condition, particularly depression, worldwide. This is higher in Bangladesh due to the lack of mental healthcare integration into antenatal healthcare, poor understanding or acceptance of mental health disorders and higher socioeconomic deprivation. There is currently an evidence gap about maternal depression in rural Bangladesh and its social determinants.AimsTo explore the neglected issue of maternal depression, its social determinants and barriers to accessing health care, among pregnant women in Rural Bangladesh using a mixed methods study design.MethodsThis research project will compromise of four phases: (1) literature reviews of existing research; (2) fieldwork in Bangladesh, involving survey via questionnaires using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale-Bangladesh (EPDS-B) scale, semi-structuredinterviews with pregnant women who show signs of depression and also semistructured interviews with health professionals; (3) analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data and their integration; and (4) write up. The project focuses on building a social sciences framework to bring together theories around maternal mental health and care seeking behaviour in Bangladesh.Outputs/impactsThis research will further develop social science understanding of maternal depression in rural Bangladesh and the social determinants. Collaboration with the Maternal Aid Association will enhance the implementation of the results and communication of findings to improve care for depression among pregnant women in rural Bangladesh. Publications and conference posters will be produced.