Perinatal Mental Health in Africa: A Mini-Review of Screening, Prevalence, and Impact

Abstract

Perinatal mental health challenges are prevalent in Africa, with estimates exceeding those observed in high-income countries. Significant  obstacles in screening and care provision complicate interventions to address these challenges. This mini-review synthesises findings  from relevant literature on perinatal mental health screening interventions in Africa. The review included studies on the prevalence of  perinatal mental disorders, associated risk factors, existing care models, screening tool effectiveness, and the roles of healthcare  providers and policymakers. As part of the methodology, academic databases such as EBSCOhost, Pubmed, PsycINFO, and CINAHL were  searched using specific keywords and MeSH terms related to perinatal mental health, screening, and interventions in Africa. Boolean  operators were employed to refine search results. Studies published in English within the past 15 years were included, focusing on  African populations. The studies were critically appraised for methodological quality and relevance. Key findings were extracted and  synthesised to provide a comprehensive overview of perinatal mental health screening in Africa. Results showed that the challenges to  effective screening and care include a high burden of mental health issues, limited screening resources, and a shortage of mental health  specialists and medications. Additionally, the lack of training for health workers, poorly coordinated referral systems, and stigma  surrounding mental health further hinder effective screening. One in four pregnant women and one in five postpartum women in Africa  experience mental health problems. To address these challenges, increasing awareness of perinatal mental health issues, training  healthcare staff, developing context-specific solutions, and utilising telehealth and mobile health services are essential. These strategies  could provide timely support and reduce the incidence of perinatal mental health challenges in Africa.