28th February 2024 7:38:13 PM
2 mins readA recent study on Postpartum Depression (PPD) among Ghanaian women has highlighted critical recommendations aimed at tackling alarming rates of maternal mental health issues in the country. The research emphasized the importance of allowing spouses to accompany women in labour wards and theatres, providing crucial support during childbirth to alleviate fear and anxiety.
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According to the study, allowing spouses in labour wards and theatres would help ease patients’ fear and anxiety while offering encouragement, thereby enhancing the birthing experience for women. Additionally, the research proposed the establishment of “daddy’s clinics” by the Ghana Health Service, aimed at promoting the active involvement of spouses in the pregnancy journey.
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These clinics would serve as platforms for partners to gain insight into the nuances of pregnancy and offer emotional and physical support to expectant mothers.Findings from the study, which included a Mental Health Situational Analysis in Ghana, revealed a prevalence of 27% of PPD among women who delivered at healthcare facilities, with Bawku recording a staggering 50.1%.
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The research also highlighted the economic and human costs associated with maternal mental health disorders, including increased risk of maternal morbidity and mortality, stunted growth in children, and social and cognitive impairment.Dr.
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Promise Sefogah, a leading consultant for the World Health Organization (WHO) on maternal mental health, attributed the triggers of PPD among Ghanaian women to various factors such as financial constraints, fear of medical procedures, and traumatic birth experiences.
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Despite the severity of the problem, Dr Sefogah emphasized the lack of knowledge and training among healthcare workers, coupled with inadequate screening and counselling services at health facilities, pushing affected women to seek solutions from spiritual and herbal centres.
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In response to these challenges, advocacy efforts have intensified for the development of a Maternal Mental Health Policy, aimed at integrating mental health services into existing healthcare frameworks. Dr. Winfred Ofosu, the Eastern Regional Director of Health, stressed the urgency for a National Policy Framework on Maternal Mental Health Care, highlighting the need for comprehensive strategies to combat maternal mental disorders.
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The initiative, sponsored by the World Health Organization Ghana and UK International Development, seeks to curb maternal mental disorders in Ghana. Dr. Joana Ansong, Technical Officer for non-communicable diseases and Mental Health at WHO Ghana country office, emphasized the importance of integrating policy interventions into routine perinatal services to address the burden of maternal mental health holistically.
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