Abstract:
Pregnancy can be a period of increased psychological susceptibility for
women living with HIV. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with
depression and psychological stress among women living with HIV during their perinatal period
in Ibadan, Nigeria. Methods: This study was a facility-based cross-sectional survey conducted in
three HIV treatment centers. The study population consisted of women living with HIV 18 years
and above who were pregnant or had given birth within the last two years. Data obtained were
analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science version 25. Results: A total of 402 participants
were eligible for this study. About 69.0% and 78.0% of the participants were depressed and had
perceived stress respectively. Women who had positive partners (OR=0.60, 95% CI=0.20-1.30) were
found to be significantly associated with perceived depression. Women who reported having a gestational
age between 29-40 weeks (OR=0.054 95% CI = 0.006, 0.500) were found to be significantly
associated with perceived stress. Factors associated with the co-occurrence of symptoms of depression
and perceived stress were partner status, income level, family support, gestational age, and
years on ART. Conclusions: Given the high prevalence of major depression, perceived stress, and
the co-occurrence of depression and perceived stress among women living with HIV, mental health
care should be incorporated into the routine maternal healthcare for all women, especially those
living with HIV.
Keywords: depression; st
