Barriers and Facilitators to the Utilization of Postpartum Depression Treatment Services among Adolescent Mothers at Kitagata Hospital in Sheema District

Abstract

Background: This study concentrated on exploring Barriers and Facilitators to the utilization of Postpartum Depression Treatment services among adolescent mothers at Kitagata Hospital in Sheema district, South Western Uganda. Individual, sociocultural and health facility factors were determined and examined. Methods: The study used the case study approach that allowed the collection of comprehensive information and understanding of the study participants‟ perceptive through in-depth interviews, documents and reports review. The research included 09 adolescent mothers who were 06 weeks to 6 months postpartum and 06 health workers who work in maternity and mental health care as key informants. The aim of the study was to explore the barriers and facilitators to the utilization of Postpartum Depression Treatment (PPDT) services among adolescent mothers at Kitagata Hospital in Sheema District. Results: The study identified Individual related issues ( Lack of knowledge of PPD, unawareness of available treatment services, Poor Attitude, Self-Stigma, poor help-seeking behavior, Low education Status, Distance of the Facility).Sociocultural related issues (Fear of stigmatization, Societal myths & expectations, PPD Literacy, Limited health centers, Unequal Gender Power Relations, Family Support). Health service-related issues (Awareness and Knowledge of the treatment services, Attitude, No readily available specialized doctors, Limited Resources, Understaffing, Clinic Privacy concerns, Follow up systems, Health Policies,) as barriers and facilitators of the utilization of postpartum depression treatment services among adolescent mothers at Kitagata Hospital in Sheema District. Conclusion: The results suggest focused training for health workers at primary care in maternal mental health including postpartum depression screening and management at Kitagata Hospital, integrating adolescent-friendly health services and initiating adolescent empowerment programs at the facility.