Mental health problems of reproductive age group women in a rural community of South-west Nigeria

Ayodeji M. Adebayo, University of Ibadan
Tolulope Soyanwo, University College Hospital, Ibadan
Kemi Sigbeku, University College Hospital, Ibadan

This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and predictors of mental health problems among non-pregnant women aged 15-49 years in a rural setting of South-west Nigeria. A community based cross-sectional survey was conducted using a cluster sampling technique to select 283 respondents. Mental health was assessed based on respondents’ experience of any symptoms of depression and anxiety. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square and multivariate logistic regression at p=0.05. The prevalence of depression and anxiety was 28.9% each while 19.8% experienced both. Gynecological conditions was a predictor of anxiety (OR 2.7; 95% CI 1.3-5.6) while previous history of miscarriage was a predictor of depression (OR 10.5; 95% CI 1.0- 108.8). This study showed that mental health problems are quite prevalent in women of reproductive age group in the study area. There is a need to integrate mental health into reproductive health services.