Ricvan Dana Nindrea, Long Chiau Ming, Nissa Prima Sari
Background: Preterm and low birth weight (LBW) infants face higher health risks and need specialized care. Maternal postnatal depression, mother-infant bonding, and healthcare practices are key to providing proper care for these vulnerable infants. This study aims to explore the role of maternal postnatal depression and bonding in enhancing healthcare practices for providing essential health care to preterm and LBW infants. Methods: This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from July to December 2024 in three regions of West Sumatra, Indonesia: the operational areas of the Health Offices in Padang City, Padang Pariaman Regency, and Solok Regency. A total of 246 mothers of LBW or preterm infants born between January and December 2023 were selected through multistage random sampling. Data analysis was conducted using structural equation modeling (SEM). Results: Most respondents were aged 20–34 years (71.5 %), with a median of two pregnancies and one delivery. Preterm births (63.0 %) and cesarean deliveries (59.3 %) were common. SEM analysis revealed that maternal postnatal depression had a direct effect on healthcare practices (β = 0.278, P = 0.004) and an indirect effect mediated by mother-infant bonding (β = 0.172, P = 0.007). Furthermore, mother-infant bonding was significantly associated with better healthcare practices (β = 0.181, P = 0.005). Conclusion: Maternal postnatal depression significantly influences healthcare practices both directly and indirectly through its effect on mother-infant bonding. These findings highlight the importance of addressing maternal mental health and fostering strong mother-infant bonds to enhance caregiving practices and improve health outcomes for vulnerable infants. © 2025 The Authors
Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Negeri Padang, Bukittinggi, 26181, Indonesia; School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Sunway City, Malaysia; Department of Maternal and Child Health, Solok District Health Office, 27364, Indonesia
