Unknown author2024-11-012024-11-012023-02-13https://eresearch.qmu.ac.uk/handle/20.500.12289/13946Postpartum depression represents a major threat to nursing mothers globally. The consequences of untreated postpartum depression represent a significant threat to both the mother and the health and well-being of her infants. Unfortunately, in low-income and middle-income countries, the prevalence is rising facilitated by numerous risk factors. This review was conducted to evaluate available evidence in the literature regarding the risk factors of postpartum depression in Nigeria and other African countries. The review also considered the availability of maternal mental health and psychological support services and the barriers that influence access to these programs. Three electronic databases were searched with searched in addition to Google scholar. After a thorough screening of initial records, 17 articles were selected for full-text review. The studies selected were published between 2000 to 2023. Reviewed articles reported several socio-demographic factors as risk factors for postpartum depression among African mothers. Some of the risk factors reported were low involvement of partners, violence from an intimate partner, complications from delivery, abuse of substances by the husband of a woman, and lack of social support. In addition, the preferred gender of baby and infant illness. Also, the marriage status of women, their decision-making power, experience with violence and history with depression were all identified as prominent risk factors. Furthermore, the review revealed a shortage of maternal mental health care services and poor-quality services in many instances. Similarly, barriers to access to services include high cost, stigma, lack of mental health knowledge and lack of education. From the findings, it was concluded that most African mothers are ignorant of the dangers of PPD, and policies should be established to ensure proper sensitization and immediate aid for patients of PPD.