Psychosocial determinants of postpartum blues among matrilineal mothers in West Sumatra, Indonesia

Abstract

Postpartum blues typically occur during the first two weeks after childbirth and may increase the risk of subsequent depressive disorders. In Minangkabau communities of West Sumatra, Indonesia, where matrilineal family systems and neo-local or dual family residence systems exist and husbands frequently migrate, it is insufficiently understood how family structure and partner presence may influence the maternal mood. This study aimed to examine psychosocial determinants of postpartum blues among 240 postpartum mothers between 3 to 14 days postpartum, in Pariaman, West Sumatra, Indonesia. Using a cross-sectional and prospective design, data were collected through face-to-face interviews using validated instruments, including the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale–Short Form (BSES-SF), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), and Indonesian Maternal Blues Scale (IMBS). Statistical analysis to identify independent predictors of postpartum blues was performed through descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multivariable logistic regressions. The mean maternal age was 28.6 years old, and 27.9% of participants met the criteria for postpartum blues. Sleep quality was poor for 86.7% of the respondents. The most significant psychosocial determinant of postpartum blues was perceived stress (OR 1.25; 95% CI 1.16–1.34; p < 0.001) and husband migration was borderline significant (OR 2.30; 95% CI 1.00–5.28; p = 0.050). In contrast, sleep quality, breastfeeding self-efficacy, and kin co-residence were not independently associated with postpartum blues. These findings highlight the importance of integrating early psychosocial screening, stress management interventions, and family-centered postpartum support into maternal health policies and primary healthcare services, particularly in culturally unique and migration-affected communities.