Depresja poporodowa
Charakterystyka, pielęgnacja i opieka

Depresja poporodowa (PPD) jest poważnym zaburzeniem nastroju występującym u około 15% kobiet w ciągu pierwszego roku po porodzie, różniącym się od przejściowego „baby blues” trwającego do 2 tygodni. Diagnoza PPD wymaga obecności co najmniej pięciu objawów utrzymujących się minimum 2 tygodnie, z których jednym musi być obniżony nastrój lub utrata zainteresowania. Objawy obejmują m.in. skrajny smutek, lęk, zaburzenia snu, zmiany apetytu, trudności w koncentracji, poczucie winy, a także myśli samobójcze. Diagnostyka opiera się na wywiadzie, ocenie biopsychospołecznej oraz stosowaniu narzędzi przesiewowych, takich jak Edynburska Skala Depresji Poporodowej (EPDS). Czynniki ryzyka to m.in. wcześniejsze zaburzenia psychiczne, stresujące wydarzenia, słabe wsparcie społeczne, młody wiek matki oraz komplikacje okołoporodowe. Nieleczona PPD może prowadzić do przewlekłej depresji, zaburzeń więzi matka-dziecko, opóźnień rozwojowych u dziecka oraz problemów rodzinnych.

Depresja poporodowa – wprowadzenie

Depresja poporodowa (ang. postpartum depression, PPD) jest poważnym zaburzeniem nastroju, które może wystąpić w ciągu pierwszego roku po porodzie. Dotyka około 1 na 7 kobiet (około 15% matek), stanowiąc najczęstsze powikłanie okresu poporodowego. Jest to stan chorobowy, który może mieć głęboki wpływ na zdrowie matki, dziecka oraz całej rodziny.123

Depresja poporodowa różni się od tzw. „baby blues”, które są łagodniejszym, przejściowym stanem emocjonalnym występującym u wielu kobiet w pierwszych dniach po porodzie. Podczas gdy „baby blues” ustępują zwykle w ciągu dwóch tygodni, depresja poporodowa jest poważniejszym zaburzeniem, które może pojawić się w ciągu pierwszych kilku tygodni lub miesięcy po porodzie i trwać znacznie dłużej, jeśli nie jest leczona.23

Wczesne rozpoznanie i leczenie depresji poporodowej ma kluczowe znaczenie zarówno dla zdrowia matki, jak i prawidłowego rozwoju dziecka. Depresja poporodowa jest stanem medycznym, a nie winą czy słabością matki, i wymaga profesjonalnego podejścia terapeutycznego.4

Objawy depresji poporodowej

Depresja poporodowa charakteryzuje się szeregiem objawów, które mogą się różnić intensywnością i czasem trwania. Do najczęstszych symptomów należą:56

  • Uczucie skrajnego smutku, lęku, rozpaczy lub pustki emocjonalnej7
  • Zmniejszenie zainteresowania lub utrata przyjemności z aktywności, które wcześniej sprawiały radość5
  • Wahania nastroju, nadmierna drażliwość i płaczliwość2
  • Poczucie winy, bezwartościowości lub nadmiernej troski8
  • Trudności z koncentracją i podejmowaniem decyzji5
  • Zmiany apetytu i masy ciała8
  • Problemy ze snem (bezsenność lub nadmierna senność), nawet gdy dziecko śpi8
  • Uczucie zmęczenia i braku energii7
  • Trudności w nawiązaniu więzi z dzieckiem lub utrata zainteresowania dzieckiem5
  • Poczucie niezdolności do opieki nad dzieckiem lub bycia nieadekwatną matką7
  • Myśli o śmierci lub samobójstwie, a w skrajnych przypadkach myśli o skrzywdzeniu dziecka5

Aby zdiagnozować depresję poporodową, objawy muszą utrzymywać się przez co najmniej dwa tygodnie i powodować znaczne zakłócenia w codziennym funkcjonowaniu. W przypadku wystąpienia co najmniej pięciu z powyższych objawów, z których przynajmniej jednym jest depresyjny nastrój lub utrata zainteresowania czynnościami, które wcześniej sprawiały przyjemność, należy podejrzewać depresję poporodową.69

Rozpoznanie i diagnostyka

Wczesne rozpoznanie depresji poporodowej jest kluczowe dla skutecznej interwencji. Zaleca się prowadzenie powszechnych badań przesiewowych w kierunku depresji u wszystkich kobiet w okresie okołoporodowym.10 Diagnostyka depresji poporodowej opiera się na:

  • Dokładnym wywiadzie medycznym i ocenie objawów3
  • Zastosowaniu walidowanych narzędzi przesiewowych, takich jak Edynburska Skala Depresji Poporodowej (EPDS), które są specjalnie zaprojektowane do wykrywania depresji poporodowej911
  • Kompleksowej ocenie biopsychospołecznej uwzględniającej fizyczne, psychologiczne i społeczne czynniki6
  • Wykluczeniu problemów fizycznych, które mogą przyczyniać się do objawów depresji, np. niedoczynności tarczycy12

Personel medyczny powinien regularnie oceniać stan psychiczny matki podczas wizyt kontrolnych po porodzie. Zgodnie z zaleceniami, badania przesiewowe w kierunku depresji powinny być przeprowadzane podczas wizyt prenatalnych oraz wizyt kontrolnych po porodzie, a w przypadku pozytywnego wyniku – należy skierować pacjentkę na dalszą diagnostykę i leczenie.10

Czynniki ryzyka depresji poporodowej

Istnieje wiele czynników, które mogą zwiększać ryzyko wystąpienia depresji poporodowej. Znajomość tych czynników może pomóc w identyfikacji kobiet wymagających szczególnej uwagi i wsparcia.1314

  • Historia depresji lub innych zaburzeń psychicznych (wcześniejsza depresja poporodowa zwiększa ryzyko do 30% w każdej kolejnej ciąży)214
  • Depresja lub lęk w trakcie ciąży14
  • Rodzinne obciążenie depresją poporodową13
  • Stresujące wydarzenia życiowe podczas ciąży lub po porodzie14
  • Słabe wsparcie społeczne i problemy w relacjach14
  • Trudności ekonomiczne15
  • Powikłania związane z ciążą i porodem13
  • Deprywacja snu13
  • Młody wiek matki (poniżej 16 lat)13
  • Doświadczenie przemocy domowej15
  • Nieplanowana lub niechciana ciąża8

Kobiety z grupy podwyższonego ryzyka powinny być objęte szczególną opieką w okresie prenatalnym i poporodowym. Wczesna identyfikacja czynników ryzyka umożliwia zastosowanie odpowiednich interwencji profilaktycznych i monitorowanie stanu psychicznego.16

Konsekwencje nieleczonej depresji poporodowej

Nieleczona depresja poporodowa może mieć poważne konsekwencje zarówno dla matki, jak i dla dziecka oraz całej rodziny.117

Wpływ na matkę

Nieleczona depresja poporodowa może prowadzić do:26

  • Przewlekłej depresji i pogorszenia stanu zdrowia psychicznego18
  • Trudności w wykonywaniu codziennych obowiązków7
  • Zakłóceń w odżywianiu i dbaniu o własne zdrowie16
  • Izolacji społecznej i problemów w relacjach19
  • W skrajnych przypadkach – myśli lub prób samobójczych11

Wpływ na dziecko

Depresja poporodowa może negatywnie wpływać na rozwój dziecka poprzez:2021

  • Zaburzenia więzi między matką a dzieckiem22
  • Opóźnienia w rozwoju poznawczym i emocjonalnym20
  • Problemy behawioralne i emocjonalne u dziecka w późniejszym wieku11
  • Ryzyko zaniedbania potrzeb dziecka17
  • Problemy z karmieniem i snem21

Wpływ na rodzinę

Depresja poporodowa wpływa także na cały system rodzinny:1923

  • Napięcia w relacji partnerskiej19
  • Zwiększone ryzyko depresji u partnera24
  • Zaburzenia funkcjonowania całej rodziny7

Ze względu na te potencjalnie poważne konsekwencje, wczesne rozpoznanie i leczenie depresji poporodowej jest kluczowe dla zdrowia i dobrostanu całej rodziny.25

Opieka pielęgniarska w depresji poporodowej

Pielęgniarki i położne odgrywają kluczową rolę w opiece nad kobietami z depresją poporodową, począwszy od screeningu, przez edukację i wsparcie, aż po udział w leczeniu.26627

Ocena i screening

Opieka pielęgniarska w depresji poporodowej obejmuje:628

  • Regularne oceny stanu psychicznego kobiety, jej zachowania i nastroju26
  • Przeprowadzanie badań przesiewowych przy użyciu walidowanych narzędzi, takich jak Edynburska Skala Depresji Poporodowej11
  • Ocenę zdolności matki do opieki nad sobą i dzieckiem6
  • Obserwację niewerbalnych zachowań i nastroju matki, zarówno gdy jest sama, jak i z partnerem6
  • Ocenę historii chorób, aby określić, czy kobieta potrzebuje poradnictwa przed lub po porodzie28

Edukacja i wsparcie

Istotnym elementem opieki pielęgniarskiej jest edukacja i wsparcie, które obejmują:2628

  • Informowanie o depresji poporodowej, jej objawach i skutkach26
  • Propagowanie zdrowego odżywiania i aktywności fizycznej2628
  • Zachęcanie do odpoczynku i dbania o własne potrzeby26
  • Wspieranie w planowaniu codziennych aktywności, w tym programu żywieniowego, ćwiczeń i snu28
  • Promowanie kontaktów społecznych i zachęcanie do proszenia o pomoc26
  • Angażowanie pracownika socjalnego, który może zapewnić wsparcie grupowe26

Interwencje pielęgniarskie

Konkretne interwencje pielęgniarskie w przypadku depresji poporodowej obejmują:292830

  • Diagnoza pielęgniarska: „Zaburzenia odżywiania: mniejsze niż zapotrzebowanie organizmu”
    • Ocena czynników emocjonalnych lub psychospołecznych wpływających na apetyt29
    • Omówienie nawyków żywieniowych, nietolerancji pokarmowych i preferencji29
    • Podkreślenie znaczenia odpowiedniego odżywiania dla regeneracji organizmu i gojenia ran29
  • Diagnoza pielęgniarska: „Ryzyko zaburzeń rodzicielskich”
    • Przeprowadzenie badania przesiewowego w kierunku depresji29
    • Ocena, w jakim stopniu depresja i inne problemy zdrowotne wpływają na poczucie nieadekwatności jako rodzica30
    • Edukacja pacjentki na temat zmian hormonalnych i innych zmian poporodowych30
    • Łączenie pacjentki z odpowiednimi zasobami, takimi jak grupy wsparcia30
  • Diagnoza pielęgniarska: „Zaburzenia radzenia sobie”
    • Aktywne słuchanie, aby zidentyfikować percepcję pacjentki31
    • Zachęcanie partnera do spędzania czasu z pacjentką31
    • Podkreślanie znaczenia komunikacji z partnerem lub bliskim przyjacielem31

Pielęgniarki powinny także zalecać matkom robienie regularnych przerw w opiece nad dzieckiem, aby miały czas dla siebie.26 Ścisła obserwacja przez pielęgniarkę poporodową jest kluczowa, a w razie potrzeby należy skierować pacjentkę do terapeuty lub psychiatry.26

Monitorowanie i ciągłość opieki

Istotnym elementem opieki pielęgniarskiej jest także:632

  • Następowanie telefoniczne po wypisie ze szpitala, aby zapewnić skuteczne zaangażowanie, odpowiednie leczenie i kontynuację opieki6
  • Wykorzystanie narzędzi ułatwiających telefoniczne rozmowy kontrolne i samoopieki pacjentek32
  • Monitorowanie postępu objawów depresyjnych32

Pielęgniarki mogą także wspierać przejście do macierzyństwa, zachęcając matki do wyrażania swoich obaw i lęków.6 Ważne jest, aby pielęgniarki ze wszystkich dyscyplin były świadome, posiadały wiedzę i angażowały się w profilaktykę i leczenie depresji poporodowej.6

Leczenie depresji poporodowej

Leczenie depresji poporodowej jest skuteczne i może obejmować różne metody w zależności od nasilenia objawów i indywidualnych potrzeb pacjentki.13

Psychoterapia

Metody psychoterapeutyczne stanowią podstawę leczenia depresji poporodowej, szczególnie w przypadkach łagodnych do umiarkowanych:12133

  • Terapia poznawczo-behawioralna (CBT) – pomaga identyfikować i zmieniać negatywne wzorce myślenia i zachowania2134
  • Terapia interpersonalna (IPT) – koncentruje się na poprawie komunikacji i relacji interpersonalnych2134
  • Psychoterapia psychodynamiczna – pomaga zrozumieć głębsze przyczyny problemów emocjonalnych21
  • Terapia dialektyczno-behawioralna – uczy umiejętności radzenia sobie z trudnymi emocjami34
  • Terapia grupowa – zapewnia wsparcie od innych osób z podobnymi doświadczeniami35

Badania wykazują, że interwencje psychologiczne są skuteczne w leczeniu depresji poporodowej w warunkach podstawowej opieki zdrowotnej i prowadzą do znaczącej poprawy objawów depresyjnych zarówno bezpośrednio po zakończeniu leczenia, jak i w okresie do 6 miesięcy obserwacji.3333

Farmakoterapia

Leki przeciwdepresyjne są ważną opcją leczenia, szczególnie w przypadkach umiarkowanej do ciężkiej depresji poporodowej:12

  • Selektywne inhibitory wychwytu zwrotnego serotoniny (SSRI) są najczęściej stosowanymi lekami ze względu na korzystny profil działań niepożądanych i względne bezpieczeństwo w przypadku przedawkowania11
  • Sertralina jest często preferowana u kobiet z depresją poporodową, ponieważ ma najniższą ekspozycję niemowlęcia podczas karmienia piersią36
  • Wiele leków przeciwdepresyjnych można bezpiecznie stosować podczas karmienia piersią, choć zawsze należy rozważyć potencjalne ryzyko i korzyści konkretnych leków321
  • Zuranolone to pierwszy doustny lek zatwierdzony przez FDA specjalnie do leczenia depresji poporodowej u dorosłych3738

Ważne jest, aby kobiety karmiące piersią konsultowały się z lekarzem na temat bezpieczeństwa stosowania leków przeciwdepresyjnych. Większość nowoczesnych leków przeciwdepresyjnych jest wydzielana w niewielkich ilościach do mleka matki i jest uważana za bezpieczną dla dzieci karmionych piersią.2139

Leczenie skojarzone

W przypadku umiarkowanej do ciężkiej depresji poporodowej często zaleca się połączenie psychoterapii i farmakoterapii:19

  • Kombinacja terapii poznawczo-behawioralnej lub interpersonalnej z lekami przeciwdepresyjnymi często przynosi najlepsze efekty40
  • Psychoterapia może być stosowana jako uzupełnienie farmakoterapii w przypadkach umiarkowanej do ciężkiej depresji poporodowej11

Inne metody wsparcia

Uzupełniające metody wsparcia mogą obejmować:1214

  • Grupy wsparcia dla matek z depresją poporodową41
  • Poradnictwo w zakresie karmienia piersią42
  • Usługi wizyt domowych42
  • Wsparcie doul poporodowych14
  • Suplementacja diety, szczególnie kwasami omega-3 i witaminą D1414
  • Regularna aktywność fizyczna i przebywanie na świeżym powietrzu14
  • Zapewnienie wsparcia społecznego i praktycznej pomocy w opiece nad dzieckiem i prowadzeniu domu24

W ciężkich przypadkach depresji poporodowej, które nie reagują na standardowe leczenie, pacjentka może być skierowana do specjalistycznego zespołu opieki zdrowia psychicznego w okresie okołoporodowym lub hospitalizowana.12

Profilaktyka depresji poporodowej

Profilaktyka depresji poporodowej ma kluczowe znaczenie dla zmniejszenia jej częstości występowania i wpływu na zdrowie kobiet i ich rodzin.4344

Interwencje profilaktyczne

Skuteczne strategie profilaktyczne obejmują:4345

  • Interwencje psychologiczne dla kobiet z grupy podwyższonego ryzyka, takie jak terapia poznawczo-behawioralna i terapia interpersonalna43
  • Psychoedukacja rozwijająca strategie radzenia sobie, zarządzania stresem i budowania sieci wsparcia8
  • Interwencje poznawczo-behawioralne w okresie poporodowym, które mogą łagodzić lęk i depresję u pierwiastek45
  • Model Ratu – model pielęgniarski do zapobiegania depresji poporodowej, obejmujący psychoedukację i poradnictwo w okresie ciąży44
  • Odpowiednie odżywianie w czasie ciąży, szczególnie składniki odżywcze, które mogą zapobiegać depresji poporodowej44

Wsparcie społeczne i rodzinne

Znaczenie wsparcia społecznego i rodzinnego w profilaktyce depresji poporodowej nie może być przecenione:1921

  • Silne wsparcie ze strony partnerów, rodziny i przyjaciół jest bardzo ważne dla zdrowia psychicznego matki3
  • Angażowanie partnerów w opiekę nad dzieckiem i wsparcie emocjonalne matki24
  • Wsparcie praktyczne w prowadzeniu gospodarstwa domowego i opiece nad dzieckiem21
  • Udział w grupach wsparcia dla nowych matek46
  • Zachęcanie kobiet do utrzymywania kontaktów społecznych28

Badania wykazały, że wsparcie społeczne może zmniejszyć prawdopodobieństwo wystąpienia depresji poporodowej. U kobiet z silnym wsparciem społecznym prawdopodobieństwo rozwoju depresji poporodowej jest znacznie mniejsze.15

Rola personelu medycznego w profilaktyce

Personel medyczny odgrywa kluczową rolę w zapobieganiu depresji poporodowej:4727

  • Regularne badania przesiewowe kobiet w okresie ciąży i po porodzie48
  • Przekazywanie stosownej wiedzy na temat depresji poporodowej kobietom i członkom ich rodzin10
  • Identyfikacja kobiet z grupy podwyższonego ryzyka i zapewnienie im dodatkowego wsparcia16
  • Promowanie praktyk, które wspierają zdrowie psychiczne matek, takich jak odpowiednie odżywianie, aktywność fizyczna i sen26
  • Utrzymywanie otwartej i wspierającej komunikacji z pacjentkami47

Lekarze rodzinni i położnicy są w stanie podnosić świadomość na temat depresji poporodowej, monitorować stan zdrowia psychicznego w trakcie ciąży, wykrywać wczesne objawy depresji poporodowej i w razie potrzeby kierować pacjentki do specjalistycznych usług opieki psychiatrycznej.47

Znaczenie wczesnej interwencji i leczenia

Wczesna interwencja i leczenie mają kluczowe znaczenie dla poprawy wyników zarówno dla matek, jak i ich dzieci.417

Korzyści z wczesnej interwencji

Szybkie rozpoznanie i leczenie depresji poporodowej przynosi wiele korzyści:72

  • Skrócenie czasu trwania epizodu depresyjnego49
  • Zmniejszenie nasilenia objawów3
  • Poprawa jakości więzi między matką a dzieckiem7
  • Zapobieganie negatywnym konsekwencjom dla rozwoju dziecka50
  • Poprawa funkcjonowania rodziny2

Pokonywanie barier w dostępie do pomocy

Mimo dostępności skutecznych metod leczenia, wiele kobiet z depresją poporodową nie otrzymuje odpowiedniej pomocy ze względu na różne bariery:651

  • Stygmatyzacja związana z zaburzeniami psychicznymi w okresie, który „powinien być” szczęśliwy6
  • Brak świadomości na temat objawów depresji poporodowej6
  • Ograniczony dostęp do usług zdrowia psychicznego52
  • Postrzeganie roli pracowników służby zdrowia jako związanej głównie ze zdrowiem fizycznym, a nie emocjonalnym51
  • Nierówności rasowe i społeczno-ekonomiczne w badaniach przesiewowych i leczeniu52

Pokonanie tych barier wymaga edukacji, uniwersalnych badań przesiewowych i projektowania usług, które są dostępne i elastyczne, aby przezwyciężyć przeszkody w ujawnianiu objawów.47

Rola partnera i rodziny we wspieraniu leczenia

Partnerzy i rodziny mogą odegrać kluczową rolę we wspieraniu kobiety z depresją poporodową:324

  • Znajomość oznak i objawów depresji poporodowej24
  • Zachęcanie do szukania pomocy i oferowanie towarzyszenia podczas wizyt24
  • Zapewnienie wsparcia emocjonalnego i praktycznej pomocy53
  • Dbanie o to, by matka jadła właściwie i odpoczywała24
  • Zabieranie dziecka na spacer, aby dać matce czas dla siebie24
  • Planowanie aktywności jako para, bez dziecka24
  • Ograniczanie liczby odwiedzających, jeśli matka czuje się przytłoczona24
  • Wyrażanie uznania i wsparcia dla matki24

Ważne jest, aby pamiętać, że depresja poporodowa może również dotykać partnerów, a badania wskazują, że do 1 na 10 ojców doświadcza depresji po narodzinach dziecka.1953

Podsumowanie i zalecenia dla praktyki pielęgniarskiej

Depresja poporodowa jest poważnym, ale uleczalnym zaburzeniem, które wymaga kompleksowego podejścia terapeutycznego i wspierającego.141

Pielęgniarki i położne odgrywają kluczową rolę w identyfikacji, leczeniu i wsparciu kobiet z depresją poporodową poprzez:2627

  • Przeprowadzanie regularnych badań przesiewowych w kierunku depresji poporodowej48
  • Edukację na temat objawów, czynników ryzyka i dostępnych metod leczenia6
  • Wspieranie prawidłowego żywienia, aktywności fizycznej i odpoczynku26
  • Zachęcanie do korzystania z grup wsparcia i sieci społecznych28
  • Współpracę z innymi specjalistami opieki zdrowotnej w celu zapewnienia kompleksowej opieki23
  • Monitorowanie postępów leczenia i dostosowywanie planu opieki6
  • Wspieranie partnerów i rodzin w pomaganiu kobietom z depresją poporodową23

Wczesne rozpoznanie i leczenie depresji poporodowej ma kluczowe znaczenie dla zdrowia i dobrostanu matek, dzieci i rodzin. Pielęgniarki i położne, jako pracownicy pierwszego kontaktu, mają wyjątkową możliwość wpłynięcia na ten proces poprzez świadczenie kompleksowej, empatycznej opieki opartej na dowodach naukowych.647

Przyszłe badania powinny koncentrować się na opracowaniu i ocenie skutecznych strategii profilaktycznych, innowacyjnych metod leczenia oraz sposobów pokonywania barier w dostępie do opieki, szczególnie dla kobiet z grup niedostatecznie obsługiwanych.5254

Kolejne rozdziały

Zapraszamy do dalszego czytania naszego leksykonu.

Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 09.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Perinatal Depression – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
    https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/perinatal-depression
    Perinatal depression can be treated. […] Women who experience any of these symptoms should see a health care provider. […] Treating perinatal depression is critical for the health of the mother and her baby, as the disorder can have serious effects on both. […] Treatment for perinatal depression usually includes therapy, medication, or a combination of therapy and medication. […] Several types of psychotherapy (also called talk therapy or counseling) can help women with perinatal depression by teaching them new ways of thinking and behaving and helping them change habits that contribute to depression. […] Medications used for depression (antidepressants) can effectively treat perinatal depression when used alone or in combination with psychotherapy. […] If you think you have perinatal depression, start by making an appointment with a health care provider. […] It is essential to understand that perinatal depression is a medical condition that impacts the mother, the child, and the family. Treatment is central to recovery.
  • #2 Postpartum Depression: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9312-postpartum-depression
    Postpartum depression is a type of depression that happens after having a baby. It affects up to 15% of women. Postpartum depression involves emotional highs and lows, frequent crying, fatigue, guilt and anxiety. You may have trouble caring for your baby. Postpartum depression can be treated with medication and counseling. […] If you have postpartum depression, know that you’re not alone. It’s not your fault. And that help is out there. Your healthcare provider can manage your symptoms and help you feel better. […] Postpartum depression is a far more serious condition than the baby blues, affecting about 1 in 7 new moms. If you’ve had postpartum depression before, your risk increases to 30% each pregnancy. You may experience alternating highs and lows, frequent crying, irritability and fatigue, as well as feelings of guilt, anxiety and inability to care for your baby or yourself. Symptoms range from mild to severe and may appear within a week of delivery or gradually, even up to a year later. Although symptoms can last several months, treatment with psychotherapy or antidepressants is very effective.
  • #2 Postpartum Depression: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9312-postpartum-depression
    Your healthcare provider may prescribe antidepressants to manage symptoms of postpartum depression. Antidepressants help balance the chemicals in your brain that affect your mood. […] It’s OK to feel overwhelmed. Parenting is full of ups and downs and having a baby isn’t easy. If you have depression, you’re not alone. Your healthcare provider can help find a treatment that works for you. […] Untreated postpartum depression is dangerous and affects you, your baby and those who love you. […] Postpartum depression isn’t entirely preventable. It helps to know warning signs of the condition and what factors increase your risk. […] With professional help, almost all those who experience postpartum depression can overcome their symptoms. […] You should seek professional help when symptoms persist beyond two weeks.
  • #2 Postpartum Depression: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9312-postpartum-depression
    Contact your healthcare provider if you think you have postpartum depression. This can be your obstetrician, primary care provider or mental health provider. Your baby’s pediatrician can also help you. […] Postpartum depression can last until one year after your child is born. However, this doesn’t mean you should feel „cured” in one year. Talk to your healthcare provider about your symptoms and treatment. Be honest about how you feel. […] Postpartum depression is common. As many as 75% of women experience baby blues after delivery. Up to 15% of these individuals will develop postpartum depression. […] Yes, postpartum depression can affect your baby. Getting treatment is important for both you and your baby. […] Postpartum depression is treated differently depending on the type and severity of your symptoms. Treatment options include anti-anxiety or antidepressant medicines, psychotherapy (talk therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy) and support group participation.
  • #3 Psychiatry.org – What is Perinatal Depression (formerly Postpartum)?
    https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/peripartum-depression/what-is-peripartum-depression
    Perinatal depression refers to depression occurring during pregnancy or after childbirth. The use of the term perinatal recognizes that depression associated with having a baby often begins during pregnancy. (Postpartum depression refers to depression experienced after childbirth.) […] Perinatal depression is a serious, but treatable medical illness involving feelings of extreme sadness, indifference and/or anxiety, as well as changes in energy, sleep, and appetite. It carries risks for the mother and child. An estimated one in seven women experiences perinatal depression (Dave, et al 2010). […] For most pregnant and postpartum individuals, having a baby is a very exciting, joyous, and often anxious time. But for people with perinatal depression, it can become very distressing and difficult. Pregnancy and the period after delivery can be a particularly vulnerable time. Mothers often experience biological, emotional, financial, and social changes during this time. Some individuals can be at an increased risk for developing mental health problems, particularly depression and anxiety.
  • #3 Postpartum depression – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/postpartum-depression/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20376623
    Your health care provider will usually talk with you about your feelings, thoughts and mental health to help determine if you have a short-term case of postpartum baby blues or a more severe form of depression. Don’t be embarrassed postpartum depression is common. Share your symptoms with your provider so that you and your provider can create a useful treatment plan. […] Treatment and recovery time vary, depending on how severe your depression is and what your individual needs are. If you have an underactive thyroid or an underlying illness, your health care provider may treat those conditions or refer you to the appropriate specialist. Your health care provider may also refer you to a mental health professional. […] Postpartum depression is often treated with psychotherapy also called talk therapy or mental health counseling medicine or both.
  • #3 Psychiatry.org – What is Perinatal Depression (formerly Postpartum)?
    https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/peripartum-depression/what-is-peripartum-depression
    Treatment for depression during pregnancy is essential. Greater awareness and understanding can lead to better outcomes for birthing individuals and their babies. […] Like other types of depression, perinatal depression can be managed with psychotherapy (talk therapy), medication, lifestyle changes and supportive environment or a combination of these. […] With proper treatment, most new mothers find relief from their symptoms. Given the high risk of relapse, people who are treated for perinatal depression should continue treatment even after they feel better and discuss with their medical providers the decision to discontinue treatment. If treatment is stopped too soon, symptoms can recur. […] The support of family and friends, joining a moms support group, and good nutrition and exercise can be helpful. Other suggestions for helping to cope with perinatal depression include resting as much as you can (sleep when your baby sleeps) and making time to go out or visit friends.
  • #3 Postpartum depression – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/postpartum-depression/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20376623
    Your health care provider may recommend an antidepressant. If you’re breastfeeding, any medicine you take will enter your breast milk. However, most antidepressants can be used during breastfeeding with little risk of side effects for your baby. Work with your provider to weigh the potential risks and benefits of specific antidepressants. […] With appropriate treatment, postpartum depression symptoms usually improve. In some cases, postpartum depression can continue and become long term, which is called chronic depression. It’s important to continue treatment after you begin to feel better. Stopping treatment too early may lead to a relapse. […] The already stressful, exhausting period following a baby’s birth is more difficult when depression occurs. But remember, postpartum depression is never anyone’s fault. It’s a common medical condition that needs treatment. […] So, if you’re having trouble coping with postpartum depression, talk with your health care provider. Ask your provider or a therapist about local support groups for new moms or women who have postpartum depression.
  • #3 Psychiatry.org – What is Perinatal Depression (formerly Postpartum)?
    https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/peripartum-depression/what-is-peripartum-depression
    Strong support from partners, family and friends is very important. Here are some suggestions from Moms Mental Health Matters, a National Institutes for Health initiative, for how loved ones can help: Know the Signs. Learn to recognize the symptoms of depression and anxiety and if you see signs, urge her to see a health care clinician. […] Encourage her to seek help if needed. She may feel uncomfortable and not want to seek help. Encourage her to talk with a health care clinician. Share some information on peripartum conditions. Offer to make an appointment for her to talk with someone.
  • #4 Postpartum depression – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/postpartum-depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20376617
    Postpartum depression is not a character flaw or a weakness. Sometimes it’s simply a complication of giving birth. If you have postpartum depression, prompt treatment can help you manage your symptoms and help you bond with your baby. […] If you’re a partner of a new mother and are having symptoms of depression or anxiety during your partner’s pregnancy or after your child’s birth, talk to your health care provider. Similar treatments and supports provided to mothers with postpartum depression can help treat postpartum depression in the other parent. […] If you have a history of postpartum depression, your provider may recommend antidepressant treatment or talk therapy immediately after delivery. Most antidepressants are safe to take while breastfeeding.
  • #5 Psychiatry.org – What is Perinatal Depression (formerly Postpartum)?
    https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/peripartum-depression/what-is-peripartum-depression
    Symptoms of perinatal depression include (APA2022): Feeling sad or having a depressed mood, Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed, Changes in appetite, Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much, Loss of energy or increased fatigue, Increase in purposeless physical activity (e.g., inability to still still, pacing, handwringing) or slowed movements or speech [these actions must be severe enough to be observable by others], Feeling worthless or guilty, Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions, Thoughts of death or suicide, Crying for no reason, Lack of interest in the baby, not feeling bonded to the baby, or feeling very anxious about/around the baby, Feelings of being a bad mother, Fear of harming the baby or oneself. […] A person experiencing perinatal depression usually has several of these symptoms, and the symptoms and their severity may change. These symptoms may cause a postpartum person to feel isolated, guilty, or ashamed. To be diagnosed with perinatal depression, symptoms must begin during pregnancy or within one year following delivery.
  • #6
    https://www.nursingcenter.com/cearticle?an=00000446-202107000-00025&Journal_ID=54030&Issue_ID=5949238
    ABSTRACT: Despite extensive research, the etiology behind postpartum depression (PPD) remains a mystery. […] This article provides foundational information about PPD, reviewing the risk factors for and the consequences of this mood disorder. […] Screening and treatment options are explained, and nursing implications for practice are presented. […] PPD is a debilitating condition characterized by such feelings as extreme sadness, anxiety, despair, irritability, anger, indifference, loss of pleasure, and hopelessness. […] PPD has profound consequences, affecting the mother, the baby, and the family. […] Because postpartum blues and postpartum psychosis have symptoms that overlap with those of PPD, initial assessment can be challenging. […] Nursing responsibilities include educating mothers and their partners on the signs and symptoms of postpartum blues, explaining that it’s a common condition, and encouraging them to seek further evaluation if symptoms worsen or persist beyond two weeks.
  • #6
    https://www.nursingcenter.com/cearticle?an=00000446-202107000-00025&Journal_ID=54030&Issue_ID=5949238
    Nurses must be able to distinguish and recognize PPD. […] During that time, at least five of eight key symptoms lasting for at least two weeks must be present, with at least one of these symptoms being depressed mood or diminished interest and pleasure in activities. […] A thorough biopsychosocial assessment must be performed. […] All maternal vulnerabilities need to be recognized to ensure timely intervention and referral. […] Nurses can begin to address these and other barriers through patient education, screening, and referral. […] Education is foundational and has been shown to reduce EPDS scores. […] Nursing assessment of PPD involves collecting both objective and subjective data to evaluate the mother’s psychological state. […] The nurse also observes the mother’s nonverbal behaviors and mood, both alone and with her partner.
  • #6
    https://www.nursingcenter.com/cearticle?an=00000446-202107000-00025&Journal_ID=54030&Issue_ID=5949238
    Nurses can also follow up by phone with depressed mothers to ensure successful engagement, appropriate treatment, and follow-through. […] Transition to motherhood is difficult, but nurses can lend support by encouraging mothers to express their fears and concerns. […] It’s likely that PPD is significantly underreported, and thus undertreated, because of the stigma attached to being diagnosed with mental illness during what „should” be a happy time. […] If we are to reduce its prevalence, nurses from all disciplines must be aware, knowledgeable, and involved in its prevention and treatment.
  • #7 Postpartum Depression – Gynecology and Obstetrics – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gynecology-and-obstetrics/postpartum-care-and-associated-disorders/postpartum-depression
    Postpartum depression is depressive symptoms during the first year after delivery that last 2 weeks and meet criteria for major depression. […] Postpartum depression occurs in 7% of women during the first year after delivery. […] Symptoms of postpartum depression are similar to those of major depression and may include extreme sadness, mood swings, uncontrollable crying, insomnia or increased sleep, loss of appetite or overeating, irritability and anger, headaches and body aches and pains, extreme fatigue, unrealistic worries about or disinterest in the baby, a feeling of being incapable of caring for the baby or of being inadequate as a mother, fear of harming the baby, guilt about her feelings, suicidal ideation, and anxiety or panic attacks. […] Postpartum depression interferes with women’s ability to care for themselves and their baby.
  • #7 Postpartum Depression – Gynecology and Obstetrics – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gynecology-and-obstetrics/postpartum-care-and-associated-disorders/postpartum-depression
    Women may not bond with their infant, resulting in emotional, social, and cognitive problems in the child later. […] Early diagnosis and treatment of postpartum depression substantially improve outcomes for women and their infant. […] Treatment of postpartum depression includes antidepressants and psychotherapy. […] For the best possible outcomes, identify and treat postpartum depression as early as possible.
  • #8 What is postpartum depression? | UNICEF Parenting
    https://www.unicef.org/parenting/mental-health/what-postpartum-depression
    Another warning sign for postpartum depression is not being able to sleep, even when your baby is sleeping. […] The symptoms of postnatal depression are similar to the symptoms of depression. They include: […] Feeling sad or low […] Being unable to enjoy things that normally bring you pleasure […] Tiredness or loss of energy […] Poor concentration or attention span […] Low self-esteem and self-confidence […] Disturbed sleep, even when your baby is asleep […] Changes in appetite […] You may feel detached from your baby or partner, and even have thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby. […] Psychoeducation to develop positive coping strategies, manage stress and build supportive networks can be helpful in protecting against postpartum depression. […] Having a support system at home looking after your mental health is incredibly important.
  • #8 What is postpartum depression? | UNICEF Parenting
    https://www.unicef.org/parenting/mental-health/what-postpartum-depression
    For those with significant risk factors, such as a personal or family history of depression, low income, intimate partner violence, having an unwanted pregnancy or current stressful life events, there are a number of counseling interventions – such as cognitive behavioural therapy and interpersonal therapy – that have been found to be effective in preventing postpartum or perinatal depression. […] There are a number of psychotherapies [such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy (IPT)] that work really well for postpartum depression and anxiety. […] There are a number of medications that are effective for managing and reducing symptoms of postpartum depression. […] The sooner you talk to someone about your thoughts and feelings – a friend, relative, doctor or midwife, for instance – the sooner you can get the help you need.
  • #9 Postpartum Depression: Etiology, Treatment, and Consequences for Maternal Care
    https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4418/14/9/865
    The diagnosis of major depressive syndrome requires the patient to meet at least five of the characteristic symptoms occurring on several days over a period of at least two weeks and producing significant interference or distress in daily life. […] Women who are at risk of postnatal depression should be identified as early as possible in pregnancy so that assessment and treatment can be initiated promptly. […] The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and Postpartum Depression Screening Scale (PDSS) are used specifically for the diagnosis of postnatal depression, while the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) is recommended for the diagnosis of depression in psychiatric medical institutions. […] Obstetricians should include brief screening methods for PPD in the evaluation of pregnant women during their visits. Thus, if PPD is diagnosed, patients should be informed about all therapeutic techniques. […] Combined therapeutic approaches, including psychotherapy and pharmacological treatment, are recommended for treating moderate and severe forms of PPD.
  • #10 Vital Signs: Postpartum Depressive Symptoms and Provider Discussions About Perinatal Depression — United States, 2018 | MMWR
    https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6919a2.htm
    Perinatal depression is a complication of pregnancy associated with poor maternal and infant health outcomes. Universal screening of pregnant and postpartum women for depression is recommended. […] Although 13% of surveyed women with a recent live birth reported depressive symptoms during the postpartum period, one in five did not report a health care provider asking about depression during prenatal visits and one in eight reported they were not asked about depression during postpartum visits. […] Health care provider screening of all women in the perinatal period can increase identification of women at risk for depression and provision of care or referral for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. […] Screening to identify pregnant and postpartum women with depressive symptoms is recommended to provide diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care to reduce poor outcomes.
  • #10 Vital Signs: Postpartum Depressive Symptoms and Provider Discussions About Perinatal Depression — United States, 2018 | MMWR
    https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6919a2.htm
    The prevalence of self-reported postpartum depressive symptoms (PDS) was 13.2%, ranging from 9.7% in Illinois to 23.5% in Mississippi. […] The prevalence of women reporting that a health care provider asked about depression during prenatal care visits was 79.1% overall, ranging from 51.3% in Puerto Rico to 90.7% in Alaska. […] The prevalence of women reporting that a provider asked about depression during postpartum visits was 87.4% overall, ranging from 50.7% in Puerto Rico to 96.2% in Vermont. […] Provision of recommended screenings and appropriate referrals for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care can ensure early and effective management of depression to reduce adverse maternal and infant outcomes. […] Women with postpartum depressive symptoms (PDS) are at increased risk for postpartum depression and require further evaluation to determine whether they meet the criteria for having a depressive disorder.
  • #10 Vital Signs: Postpartum Depressive Symptoms and Provider Discussions About Perinatal Depression — United States, 2018 | MMWR
    https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6919a2.htm
    Identifying women with PDS should be complemented with adequate systems to ensure needed diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. […] The prevalence of inquiry about depression by a health care provider was higher during postpartum than prenatal visits, both overall and in 21 (68%) of 31 participating sites. […] Despite the observed increase in the percentage of health care providers asking women about depression over time, one in eight women with a live birth in 2018 reported not being asked about depression during a postpartum visit, and one in five did not report being asked at a prenatal visit. […] Health care providers can provide timely perinatal depression education to women and family members or other support persons. […] To optimize the health of women and infants, postpartum care should become an ongoing process, with services and support tailored to each woman’s individual needs.
  • #11 Postpartum Major Depression | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2010/1015/p926.html
    Postpartum major depression is a disorder that is often unrecognized and must be distinguished from baby blues. […] Screening with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale may be appropriate. […] Psychotherapy or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors may be used to treat the condition. […] In patients with moderate to severe postpartum major depression, psychotherapy may be used as an adjunct to medication. […] If left untreated, postpartum major depression can lead to poor mother-infant bonding, delays in infant growth and development, and an increased risk of anxiety or depressive symptoms in the infant later in life. […] The term postpartum depression commonly includes major and minor depression, which differ in severity and prognosis, and have a combined incidence of 7 to 15 percent in the first three months postpartum.
  • #11 Postpartum Major Depression | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2010/1015/p926.html
    Women with postpartum major depression should be asked about suicidal ideation and, if necessary, referred for emergent psychiatric evaluation and possible hospitalization. […] Interpersonal therapy and cognitive behavior therapy in individual or group settings are effective in treating mild to moderate postpartum major depression. […] Individual or group psychotherapy is an effective treatment for mild to moderate postpartum major depression. […] Psychotherapy can also be used as adjunct therapy with medication in moderate to severe postpartum major depression. […] Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors have become the mainstay of treatment for moderate to severe postpartum major depression because of their favorable adverse effect profiles and relative safety in overdose compared with tricyclic antidepressants. […] A thorough risk-benefit discussion with each patient is essential before deciding on treatment for postpartum major depression.
  • #12 Treatment – Postnatal depression – NHS
    https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/post-natal-depression/treatment/
    Talk to a GP about the pros and cons of different treatments so you can decide together what’s best for you. […] They may check to see if any physical health problems may be causing or contributing to feelings of depression. […] For instance, you may be anaemic after giving birth or your thyroid may not be working properly. This can cause or add to any feelings of depression. These types of physical health problems can usually be easily treated. […] Talking therapies are usually the first treatment recommended for women with postnatal depression. […] Antidepressants may be recommended if you have moderate or severe depression and you do not want to try psychological treatment or psychological treatment does not help. […] Antidepressants work by balancing mood-altering chemicals in your brain.
  • #12 Treatment – Postnatal depression – NHS
    https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/post-natal-depression/treatment/
    Speak to a GP, midwife or health visitor as soon as possible if you think you might have postnatal depression or depression during pregnancy (antenatal depression). With appropriate treatment and support, most women make a full recovery, although it can take time. […] The 3 main types of treatment are: self-help for example, talking to your family and friends about your feelings, making time to do things you enjoy, getting as much sleep as you can at night, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet […] talking therapy a GP may be able to recommend a self-help course or refer you for a course of therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) […] antidepressants these may be recommended if your depression is more severe or other treatments have not helped; your doctor can prescribe a medicine that’s safe to take while breastfeeding.
  • #12 Treatment – Postnatal depression – NHS
    https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/post-natal-depression/treatment/
    They can help ease symptoms such as low mood, irritability, lack of concentration and sleeplessness, allowing you to function normally and helping you cope better with your new baby. […] If your postnatal depression is very severe and does not respond to treatment, you may be referred to a specialist community perinatal mental health team. […] Specialist community perinatal mental health teams are available across England. […] These teams provide care and treatment to women with complex mental health needs during pregnancy and after giving birth. They help support the developing relationship between mothers and babies. […] If your depression is severe you may be admitted to hospital or a mental health clinic until you are well enough to return home. Ideally this should be with your baby in a specialised mother and baby mental health unit.
  • #13 Postnatal depression – Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment | BMJ Best Practice
    https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-gb/512
    Episodes of postnatal depression last 3 to 6 months on average, but may last for months or even years. […] This topic focuses on postnatal depression within a unipolar illness. […] Key diagnostic factors include presence of risk factors, depressed mood, anhedonia, decreased energy or increased fatigability, suicidal ideation, loss of confidence or self-esteem, unreasonable feelings of self-reproach or excessive and inappropriate guilt, and poor concentration. […] Risk factors include history of depressed mood, depression, or anxiety, recent stressful life events, poor social support, discontinuation of psychopharmacological treatments, sleep deprivation, socioeconomic difficulties, postnatal hypomania, personality traits, pregnancy- and delivery-related complications, age less than 16 years, familial and genetic factors, and physical, psychological, or sexual abuse by partner during pregnancy. […] Depression identification questions, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ) are first investigations to order.
  • #14 Treating Postpartum Depression – Whole Health Library
    https://www.va.gov/WHOLEHEALTHLIBRARY/tools/treating-postpartum-depression.asp
    Women with postpartum depression have intense feelings of sadness, anxiety, or despair that can interfere with their ability to do their daily tasks. It can occur up to one year after having a baby, but it most commonly starts about one to three weeks after childbirth. The term postpartum depression commonly includes major and minor depression, which differ in severity and prognosis, and have a combined incidence of 12% in healthy women, who gave birth to full-term infants. […] Risk factors for postpartum depression include a history of postpartum major depression with a previous pregnancy, antenatal depressive symptoms (relative risk [RR] = 5.6), a history of major depressive disorder (RR = 4.5), poor social support (RR = 2.6), major life events or stressors during pregnancy (RR = 2.5), and a family history of postpartum major depression (RR = 2.4).
  • #14 Treating Postpartum Depression – Whole Health Library
    https://www.va.gov/WHOLEHEALTHLIBRARY/tools/treating-postpartum-depression.asp
    Treatment options include lifestyle changes, counseling, dietary supplementation, and pharmaceuticals. […] Encourage mothers to be open about their feelings and reach out. Help them get in touch with people who can help with childcare, household chores and errands. […] Maintain a list of local counselors who specialize in working with postpartum women. Mothers with depression should establish a relationship with a counselor she can see regularly. […] Unlike therapists or psychiatrists, doulas do not treat postpartum depression. However, they will help by attending to the mothers home environment to support her emotionally. […] Proper nutrition and dietary supplementation will help to support mood and energy levels during the postpartum period. […] Dietary supplementation with omega-3 fats prenatally may decrease the risk of developing postpartum depression, as well as reduce some depressive symptoms in the postpartum period.
  • #14 Treating Postpartum Depression – Whole Health Library
    https://www.va.gov/WHOLEHEALTHLIBRARY/tools/treating-postpartum-depression.asp
    Studies suggest a link between low serum vitamin D levels and an increased risk of postpartum depression. […] Exercise and fresh air can be very therapeutic to mothers, who often find themselves spending a lot of time indoors, tending to their babys needs. […] Social connection is necessary during the postpartum time. Encourage mothers to ask for help and connect with family, friends, and supportive people through recreation, classes, religious groups, etc. […] Postpartum Support International (PSI), a world-wide organization founded in 1987, exists to provide support, reliable information, resources, and education for distress in pregnancy and postpartum.
  • #15 Postnatal Depression Screening among Postpartum Women Attending Postnatal Care at Selected Community Health Centres Situated in the Nkangala District of South Africa
    https://openpublichealthjournal.com/VOLUME/13/PAGE/696/FULLTEXT/
    In South Africa, maternal mental health care, particularly for PND, remains a neglected area and the country continues to focus more on reducing maternal and infant mortality and promoting infant physical health. […] The findings further showed that the likelihood of developing PND was associated with several factors such as baby age, household income, partner/husband support, partner/husband having another sexual partner, social support, having a person who offers social support, partner/husband violence, and stressful life events. […] The odds of developing PND were three times more likely in women with babies aged six weeks and above and 4.50 times more likely in women living in households with an income of less than $115.55. […] Partner/husband violence increased the odds of developing PND, as well as stressful life events. […] Having a partner/husband support and receiving social support reduced the probability of PND.
  • #16 Postpartum Depression Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
    https://www.upmc.com/services/womens-health/conditions/postpartum-depression
    High-risk patients can get treatment before childbirth to head off or reduce postpartum depression. […] If you are at high risk and are expecting or have delivered a child recently, ask your provider to assess your risk for PPD. […] A recently pregnant person experiencing these symptoms should get a complete medical evaluation, including thyroid screening. […] Treatment can improve symptoms of postpartum depression and make sure you and your baby are safe and cared for. It can also help you feel like yourself again so you can enjoy parenthood. […] Doctors plan treatment for postpartum depression based on factors like age, health, medical history, severity and duration of symptoms, tolerance for medications, breastfeeding status, and personal preferences. […] Treatments include lifestyle changes, counseling, and medicine.
  • #16 Postpartum Depression Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
    https://www.upmc.com/services/womens-health/conditions/postpartum-depression
    Postpartum depression (PPD) is depression that occurs after childbirth, pregnancy loss, or termination. PPD is more than the „baby blues” or feelings of sadness and fatigue that many women experience after the end of a pregnancy. PPD is a serious disease that can occur up to a year after delivery. […] For the good of the parent and their new baby, it is crucial to identify and treat PPD as quickly as possible. […] Postpartum depression (PPD) is depression that develops after a pregnancy. PPD causes intense feelings of sadness or worthlessness. It can happen up to a year after pregnancy and interferes with a parent’s ability to care for and bond with their baby. […] If you have thoughts of suicide or of harming your baby, call 911 or seek professional help immediately. […] Left untreated, PPD can seriously harm a person’s health. They may not eat well or lack the energy to care for their child. They may even start to think about hurting themselves or their baby.
  • #17 Postpartum depression
    https://womenshealth.gov/mental-health/mental-health-conditions/postpartum-depression
    Having depression can affect your baby. Getting treatment is important for you and your baby. Getting help is a sign of strength. […] Untreated postpartum depression can affect your ability to parent. You may: […] Researchers believe postpartum depression in a mother can affect the healthy development of her child which can cause:
  • #18 Postpartum depression: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007215.htm
    Postpartum depression is moderate to severe depression in a woman after she has given birth. It may occur soon after delivery or up to a year later. Most of the time, it occurs within the first 3 months after delivery. […] A new mother who has any symptoms of postpartum depression should contact her provider right away to get help. […] The treatment for depression after birth often includes medicine, talk therapy, or both. […] Support groups may be helpful, but they should not replace medicine or talk therapy if you have postpartum depression. […] Having good social support from family, friends, and coworkers may help reduce the seriousness of postpartum depression. […] Left untreated, postpartum depression can last for months or years. […] Contact your provider if you have any of the following: Your baby blues do not go away after 2 weeks. […] Do not be afraid to seek help right away if you feel overwhelmed and are afraid that you may hurt your baby. […] Women who had postpartum depression after past pregnancies may be less likely to develop postpartum depression again if they start taking antidepressant medicines after they deliver.
  • #19 Postnatal depression (PND) | Better Health Channel
    https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/postnatal-depression-pnd
    New parents can develop postnatal depression (PND) within the first few months after the arrival of their newborn baby. […] Around one in 5 mothers and one in 10 fathers develop PND. […] PND can range from a mild feeling of sadness to a paralysing depression. […] Support persons can play a big role in helping a parent recover from PND. […] Partners, family and friends can all have an important role in recovery from PND. […] The support of family members, friends and health care providers is crucial in helping recovery. […] A woman with postnatal depression may withdraw from everyone, including her baby, partner, friends and other family members. […] A woman with PND may also withdraw from her support person(s). The support of family members, friends and health care workers is very important.
  • #19 Postnatal depression (PND) | Better Health Channel
    https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/postnatal-depression-pnd
    During the period of illness, it is vital that the mother accesses support persons to help with her recovery. […] Postnatal depression can put an enormous strain on any relationship, even when the partner is patient, loving and supportive. […] Suggestions for a couple dealing with PND include: Learn together about PND. […] If you are know someone who may be suffering from PND: Be patient. […] Many kinds of support are available for women experiencing postnatal depression. […] Support and patience from family and friends are perhaps the most important factor in a woman’s recovery from PND. […] It’s important to remember that PND is a temporary condition that will improve with time.
  • #20 Postpartum depression | Description, Risk Factors, Diagnosis, & Treatment | Britannica
    https://www.britannica.com/science/postpartum-depression
    postpartum depression, depressive disorder sometimes occurring in mothers following childbirth (parturition). Postpartum depression is associated with various risk factors and can have serious consequences for affected women and their infants. […] Postpartum depression responds well to treatment, particularly psychosocial treatment with an interpersonal focus. […] A tool that is commonly used to screen for depression specific to the postpartum period is the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Rating Scale. […] The strongest predictors of postpartum depression are a previous history of depression before or during pregnancy, poor marital relationship, lack of social support, and stressful life events, including major events and ongoing child-care stressors. […] Infants whose mothers are depressed have an elevated risk for emotional, cognitive, and behavioral difficulties, although the risk is lessened if the episode is relatively brief. […] Studies have provided evidence that psychoeducation, supportive group therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy are effective in treating postpartum depression. Interpersonal therapy, which helps patients improve communication with others, can also benefit women at risk of postpartum depression.
  • #21 Postpartum depression – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Postpartum_depression
    Postpartum depression can interfere with normal maternal-infant bonding and adversely affect acute and long-term child development. Infants of mothers with PPD have higher incidences of excess crying, temperamental issues, and sleeping difficulties. […] Treatment for mild to moderate PPD includes psychological interventions or antidepressants. Women with moderate to severe PPD would likely experience a greater benefit with a combination of psychological and medical interventions. […] Both individual social and psychological interventions appear equally effective in the treatment of PPD. Social interventions include individual counseling and peer support, while psychological interventions include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT). […] The use of SSRIs for the treatment of PPD is not a contraindication for breastfeeding. While antidepressants are excreted in breastmilk, the concentrations recorded in breastmilk are very low. Extensive research has shown that the use of SSRIs by women who are lactating is safe for the breastfeeding infant/child.
  • #21 Postpartum depression – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Postpartum_depression
    Postpartum depression (PPD), also called perinatal depression, is a mood disorder which may be experienced by pregnant or postpartum individuals. Symptoms include extreme sadness, low energy, anxiety, crying episodes, irritability, and extreme changes in sleeping or eating patterns. PPD can also negatively affect the newborn child. […] Treatment for PPD may include counseling or medications. Types of counseling that are effective include interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and psychodynamic therapy. Tentative evidence supports the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). […] Among those at risk, providing psychosocial support may be protective in preventing PPD. This may include community support such as food, household chores, mother care, and companionship.
  • #22 Postpartum Depression and the Baby Blues: Causes, Symptoms
    https://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/depression/postpartum-depression-and-the-baby-blues
    Postpartum depression can interrupt this bonding. […] However, learning to bond with your baby not only benefits your child, it also benefits you by releasing endorphins that make you feel happier and more confident as a mom. […] One of the best things you can do to relieve or avoid postpartum depression is to take care of yourself. […] If, despite the self-help and the support of your family, youre still struggling with postpartum depression, you may want professional treatment. […] Antidepressants may be an option. […] If a loved one is experiencing postpartum depression, the best thing you can do is to offer support. […] Encourage her to talk about her feelings. […] If your partner is the one dealing with postpartum depression, incorporate the following tips as well as the ones listed above.
  • #23 Interventions for Mothers with Postpartum Depression: A Systematic Review
    https://clinmedjournals.org/articles/ijda/international-journal-of-depression-and-anxiety-ijda-1-002.php?jid=ijda
    Women may go through a wide range of emotional experiences during pregnancy and the year following birth. In some cases it can result in depressive symptoms which need treatment and supportive interventions. […] The aim of this study is to investigate systematically the evidence surrounding the impact of such interventions on improving women and infant mental health in mothers with postpartum depression. […] Majority of studies recommended for cost-effective and accessible postnatal care as a routine, follow up practices through telephone, direct education to supporters of new mother, and ensuring the availability of community resources and manpower. […] Maternal mental health problems are not only detrimental to a woman’s health; they have also been linked to reduced sensitivity and responsiveness in caregiving and to higher rates of behavioural problems in young children.
  • #23 Interventions for Mothers with Postpartum Depression: A Systematic Review
    https://clinmedjournals.org/articles/ijda/international-journal-of-depression-and-anxiety-ijda-1-002.php?jid=ijda
    Psycho-educational interventions that promote problem solving, coping skills, role transitions, interpersonal skills, addressing need for support systems, frames a sense of personal agency and help to reframe unhelpful thinking patterns, including cognitive behaviour therapy and interpersonal therapy, have consistently proven effective in the management of common perinatal mental disorders (CPMD). […] The studies give an important lesson in terms of intervention which should be culturally sound with components of cognitive, interpersonal, problem solving, and practical oriented practices that should be administered to individuals or groups. […] The model ensures integrated approach by including obstetrician, mental health professional, and community health worker/nurses/trained midwives or dais which focuses on care consists of mother-infant- and family member.
  • #24
    https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/postnatal-depression/advice-partners-families/
    Living with someone with postnatal depression can be very worrying. There are things you can do to help. […] Know the signs and symptoms of postnatal depression. […] Encourage her to talk to her GP, public health nurse (PHN), counsellor or psychotherapist and offer to go with her to appointments. […] Make sure she eats enough and gets rest. […] Encourage her to do some exercise or go for a walk together. […] Take the baby out for a walk to give her a break. […] Plan activities as a couple away from the baby. […] Limit the number of visitors if she is feeling overwhelmed. […] Tell her she is a great mother and that she is doing great. […] Find any support groups or mother and baby groups in your area and encourage her to join. Ask your public health nurse about this. […] Research has shown that up to 1 in 10 partners experience depression after the birth of a child. 9 in 10 do not.
  • #25 Postpartum depression | March of Dimes
    https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/postpartum/postpartum-depression
    Postpartum depression (also called PPD) is not your fault. Its a medical condition that needs treatment to get better. […] Many women have PPD after having a baby. Its the most common problem for new moms. If you think you have PPD, tell your provider. […] PPD can make it hard for you to take care of yourself and your baby. […] If you have signs or symptoms of PPD, talk to your provider about treatment. […] Certain kinds of counseling can help prevent depression. If youre at risk for depression, talk to your provider about finding a counselor. […] PPD is a kind of perinatal depression. This is depression that happens during pregnancy or in the first year after giving birth. PPD is the most common complication for women who have just had a baby. It affects up to 1 in 8 women (about 12.5 percent).
  • #26 Perinatal Depression (Nursing) – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK568673/
    Nursing management for perinatal depression includes assessing the mental status, behavior, and mood. […] It is important to educate the patient on perinatal depression and encourage a healthy diet. […] Providing support and encouraging self-care are essential components of nursing care. […] Involving a social worker who can provide support groups is also recommended. […] Nurses should encourage patients to ask for help and engage in social activities. […] Close follow-up by the postpartum nurse is crucial, and referrals to a therapist or psychiatrist may be necessary. […] Encouraging the patient to take breaks from baby care frequently can also be beneficial.
  • #27
    https://he02.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/cmunursing/article/view/265903
    Postpartum depression is an abnormal mood disorder that often occurs within 6 to 8 weeks after childbirth. […] Therefore, nurses and midwives play a crucial role in preventing the risk of postpartum depression. This role includes assessing both physical and mental well-being, providing education about postpartum depression, offering counseling, and closely monitoring for any unusual symptoms. […] For this reason, nurses and midwives should be well-informed about the management of postpartum depression in high-risk pregnancies to prevent its occurrence or provide swift assistance in dealing with postpartum mental health.
  • #28 Postpartum Depression Nursing Care and Management
    https://nurseslabs.com/postpartum-depression/
    Assess the womans psychological health even before the delivery. […] Assess her history of illnesses to determine if she needs any counseling prior to her delivery to avoid postpartum depression. […] Impaired parenting related to the inability to perform activities of daily living secondary to postpartum depression. […] Assist the woman in planning for her daily activities, such as her nutrition program, exercise, and sleep. […] Recommend support groups to the woman so she can have a system where she can share her feelings. […] Advise the woman to take some time for herself every day so she can have a break from her regular baby care. […] Encourage the woman to keep in touch with her social circle as they can also serve as her support system. […] The psychological health of a mother has as much impact as well as her physical health. Her well-being must also be ensured because she is the number caregiver of the infant, and the bonding between mother and child would only be possible if both of them are in a state of good holistic health.
  • #29 Postpartum: Nursing Diagnoses & Care Plans | NurseTogether
    https://www.nursetogether.com/postpartum-nursing-diagnosis-care-plan/
    Nursing Diagnosis: Imbalanced Nutrition: Less Than Body Requirements […] Related to: […] – Postpartum depression […] Expected outcomes: […] – Patient will meet nutritional needs as evidenced by prompt postpartum recovery, timely wound healing, and appropriate energy levels. […] Assessment: […] 1. Assess for emotional or psychosocial factors affecting appetite. A newborn is a significant change to routine, sleep, and relationships. Assess for symptoms of depression that may affect appetite. Lack of sleep and energy also contribute to poor dietary intake. […] Interventions: […] 1. Discuss eating habits, food intolerances, and preferences. Postpartum patients need adequate nutrients to ensure prompt body recovery and wound healing, especially if a C-section was performed. Protein is vital for wound healing and recovery. Assess if the patient follows a particular diet like veganism that may require individualized interventions to meet nutritional needs.
  • #29 Postpartum: Nursing Diagnoses & Care Plans | NurseTogether
    https://www.nursetogether.com/postpartum-nursing-diagnosis-care-plan/
    […] […] Nursing Diagnosis: Risk For Impaired Parenting […] Related to: […] – History of depression or mental illness […] Expected outcomes: […] – Parent will verbalize individual risk factors that increase the risk of impaired parenting. […] Interventions: […] 3. Perform a depression screening. Post-partum depression can affect up to 18% of new mothers. Symptoms displayed often show a loss of sensitivity and response to their infants needs. This serious condition requires intervention for both mom and baby.
  • #30 11 Postpartum Nursing Diagnosis, Care Plans, and More – General Student Support
    https://allnurses.com/postpartum-nursing-diagnosis-care-plans-t61959/
    For new mothers, the postpartum period comes with significant changes as they adapt to their new role and heal from giving birth. Potential mental health challenges exist as hormonal changes and other factors cause postpartum depression in 6.5% to 20% of women. […] Your role also encompasses watching out for symptoms that could indicate physical or psychological complications to address these issues early and improve the outcome with a relevant treatment plan. […] As a nurse, you can also make a difference by developing a personalized care plan that reflects each patient’s unique health history. […] Assess to which extent depression and other health challenges play a part in feelings of inadequacy as a parent. […] Educate the patient about hormonal changes and other postpartum changes to make these symptoms easier to navigate. […] Connect the patient to appropriate resources: Discuss mental health and encourage the patient to seek help from their support network or community resources to treat underlying mood disorders.
  • #31 Nursing Care Plan Postpartum Depression | PDF | Postpartum Depression | Major Depressive Disorder
    https://www.scribd.com/doc/279100294/Nursing-Care-Plan-Postpartum-Depression
    The nursing diagnosis is risk for ineffective coping related to depression in response to stressors associated with childbirth and parenting. The expected outcome is that after implementation of nursing care, the client will verbalize feelings with the significant other and healthcare provider throughout the postpartum period. The nursing implementation includes actively listening to identify the client’s perceptions, encouraging the significant other to spend time with the client, and emphasizing continued communication with the partner or close friend for support. […] The nursing diagnosis is risk for ineffective coping related to depression in response to stressors associated with childbirth and parenting. The expected outcome is that after implementation of nursing care, the client will verbalize feelings with the significant other and healthcare provider throughout the postpartum period. The nursing implementation includes actively listening to identify the client’s perceptions, encouraging the significant other to spend time with the client, and emphasizing continued communication with the partner or close friend for support.
  • #32 Postpartum Depression Toolkit | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/family-physician/patient-care/nrn/studies/all/trippd/ppd-toolkit.html
    The following documents and links were developed and used during the Translating Screening and Management of Postpartum Depression (TRIPPD) study and are provided to you as a resource. Based on the study findings, we encourage you to use some or all of these tools in your workflow for the identification and care of postpartum depression in your practice. […] tools to facilitate nurse follow-up calls and patient self-care; and recommendations for monitoring the progression of depressive symptoms. […] Nurses’ Follow-up Call Form
  • #33 Effectiveness of Psychological Interventions for Postnatal Depression in Primary Care: A Meta-Analysis | Annals of Family Medicine
    https://www.annfammed.org/content/14/5/463
    Postnatal depression affects 10% to 15% of new mothers, and approximately 90% of cases are managed in primary care. […] Psychological interventions deliverable in the primary care setting are associated with a significant improvement in depressive symptomatology both immediately after completion and for up to 6 months of follow-up. […] A range of psychological interventions have been developed for postnatal depression. They include support groups, counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and psychodynamic therapy. […] The primary objective of this systematic review was to assess the effectiveness of psychological interventions in women with postnatal depression who were recruited and treated in primary care settings. […] Psychological interventions resulted in lower depressive symptomatology than control both immediately after treatment and at 6 months of follow-up.
  • #33 Effectiveness of Psychological Interventions for Postnatal Depression in Primary Care: A Meta-Analysis | Annals of Family Medicine
    https://www.annfammed.org/content/14/5/463
    The psychological interventions additionally resulted in lower levels of stress and anxiety compared with control. […] Our review provides evidence for the use of psychological interventions for the treatment of postnatal depression in primary care. […] Overall, psychological interventions are a valid treatment option for postnatal depression managed in primary care, and provide an important alternative for mothers not wishing to take antidepressant medication.
  • #34 Postpartum Depression and Perinatal Depression | AHN
    https://www.ahn.org/services/womens-health/behavioral-health/perinatal-depression-symptoms
    Perinatal depression is an urgent issue. […] At AHN, we offer comprehensive, ongoing womens behavioral health services throughout your pregnancy and for a year postpartum. […] AHN is one of the few hospitals in the country to offer intensive mother-baby outpatient treatment for postpartum depression. […] Our staff offers hour-long, weekly therapy sessions for depression. […] We will routinely screen you for depression throughout your pregnancy and after you give birth. […] If you screen positive for a mood disorder, you’ll be contacted by our staff within 48 hours and receive an intake appointment with a clinician within two weeks. […] AHN is one of the few facilities in the country that offers intensive, outpatient mother-baby therapy the first one in the region. […] This intensive postpartum therapy can lead to quicker recovery, and help you bond with your baby. […] During intensive outpatient treatment, our womens behavioral health professionals lead sessions that include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), dialectical behavior therapy, mother-baby yoga, group therapy, and medication management.
  • #35 Postpartum Depression: Symptoms, Causes, Risks, Types, Tests, Professional and Self-Care
    https://www.webmd.com/depression/postpartum-depression
    Postpartum depression (PPD) is a complex mix of physical, emotional, and behavioral changes that happen in some women after giving birth. […] The diagnosis of postpartum depression is based not only on the length of time between delivery and onset but on the severity of the depression. […] PPD can be treated with medication and counseling. […] Symptoms of postpartum depression can be hard to detect. […] Untreated postpartum depression can be dangerous for new moms and their children. A new mom should seek professional help when: Symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks, They cant function normally, They can’t cope with everyday situations, They have thoughts of harming themselves or their baby, They’re feeling extremely anxious, scared, and panicked most of the day. […] Treatment options include anti-anxiety or antidepressant medications, psychotherapy, and participation in a support group for emotional support and education.
  • #36
    https://bpac.org.nz/2019/perinatal-depression.aspx
    Sertraline is often preferred for women with perinatal depression as it has the lowest infant exposure during breast feeding. […] If a woman is already taking an antidepressant, the decision to continue or withdraw pharmacological treatment should be made as soon as possible, once pregnancy is confirmed. […] The consensus among guidelines is that women who are receiving pharmacological treatment for depression prior to pregnancy should continue to do so during pregnancy and into the postpartum period. […] Active follow-up is recommended for all patients who present with mental health issues.
  • #37 A New Treatment for Postpartum Depression | Patient Care
    https://weillcornell.org/news/a-new-treatment-for-postpartum-depression
    Tired Mother Suffering from experiencing postnatal depression […] The good news is that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved an oral medication called Zuranolone thats specifically designed to counteract PMADs. […] Developing depression or anxiety during the perinatal period is never a womans fault, she says. These are real illnesses. […] The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has estimated perinatal depression to be one of the most common complications of pregnancy and the postpartum period. Around 15 to 20 percent of women can develop PMADs. […] Untreated PMADs have significant negative effects on new mothers, their babies and the entire family system. […] The mechanism of action of Zuranolone is different from other antidepressants, says Dr. Givrad. Its the first FDA-approved oral medicine for the treatment of postpartum depression in adults, and its designed to target pregnancy-related hormonal changes that may precipitate perinatal depression.
  • #38 FDA Approves First Oral Treatment for Postpartum Depression | FDA
    https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-oral-treatment-postpartum-depression
    Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Zurzuvae (zuranolone), the first oral medication indicated to treat postpartum depression (PPD) in adults. PPD is a major depressive episode that typically occurs after childbirth but can also begin during the later stages of pregnancy. […] Postpartum depression is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition in which women experience sadness, guilt, worthlessness even, in severe cases, thoughts of harming themselves or their child. […] Having access to an oral medication will be a beneficial option for many of these women coping with extreme, and sometimes life-threatening, feelings. […] As with other forms of depression, PPD is characterized by sadness and/or loss of interest in activities that one used to enjoy and a decreased ability to feel pleasure.
  • #39 Postpartum Depression | Breastfeeding special circumstances | CDC
    https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding-special-circumstances/hcp/illnesses-conditions/postpartum-depression.html
    Mothers with postpartum depression (following childbirth) can usually continue to breastfeed. Health care providers should work with mothers experiencing postpartum depression to ensure they receive appropriate treatment, support, and safe medications while breastfeeding. […] Mothers with postpartum depression can usually continue to breastfeed. While some mothers experience positive feelings from breastfeeding, others may not. Health care providers can: […] Address mothers’ depression promptly and help them reach their breastfeeding goals. […] Talk to mothers about treatment options, including medications and non-pharmacological options, such as individual or group therapy. […] Help mothers access professional breastfeeding support as needed.
  • #40 Postpartum Depression: Symptoms, Causes, and More
    https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/postpartum-depression
    Treatment for postpartum depression can include medication, certain forms of therapy, and support groups. Typically, a combination of medication and therapy is the most effective treatment. […] If you have symptoms of postpartum depression, you should contact a healthcare professional as soon as possible to start treatment. […] Studies have found that a specific type of therapy called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can significantly relieve postpartum depression symptoms. […] Postpartum depression can feel exhausting and isolating, so its important to take time to reach out to family and friends and ask for help when you need it. Joining support groups can also help. […] If youre experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression, contact a healthcare professional as soon as possible to get treatment and address your symptoms. […] Effective treatment options are available that work. Talking with other parents who have experienced it and letting family and friends support you can also help.
  • #41 Postnatal depression – NHS
    https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/post-natal-depression/overview/
    Postnatal depression is a type of depression that many parents experience after having a baby. […] It’s important to get help as soon as possible if you think you might be depressed, as your symptoms could last for months or get worse and have a significant impact on you, your baby and your family. […] Many midwives and health visitors have been trained to recognise postnatal depression and have techniques that can help. […] Remember that a range of help and support is available, including talking therapy. […] Postnatal depression can be lonely, distressing and frightening, but support and effective treatments are available. […] Local and national organisations, such as the Association for Post Natal Illness (APNI) and Pre and Postnatal Depression Advice and Support (PANDAS), can also be useful sources of help and advice.
  • #42 Perinatal mood & anxiety disorders (PMADs): Resources for healthcare providers | Mass.gov
    https://www.mass.gov/info-details/postpartum-depression-resources-for-health-care-providers
    Several national organizations have recommended universal screening: US Preventative Services Task Force recommends screening for depression in the general adult population, including pregnant and postpartum women. […] It’s important to normalize perinatal mood and anxiety disorders by using nonjudgmental and supportive language when screening your patients. […] Both counseling and therapy can be effective ways to help parents address their feelings, thoughts, and actions. […] Psychiatric medications can be effective in treating PMADs. […] Support groups can be helpful in a variety of ways, including: Helping parents make connections with other parents struggling with PMADs, Learning helpful and practical coping skills from other parents, Reduces a sense of isolation. […] In addition to therapy, support groups, and medication, many parents benefit from other resources including breastfeeding supports, home visiting services, or doula services.
  • #43 Recommendation: Perinatal Depression: Preventive Interventions | United States Preventive Services Taskforce
    https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/perinatal-depression-preventive-interventions
    The USPSTF recommends that clinicians provide or refer pregnant and postpartum persons who are at increased risk of perinatal depression to counseling interventions. […] The USPSTF found convincing evidence that counseling interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy, are effective in preventing perinatal depression in those at increased risk. […] The USPSTF concludes with moderate certainty that counseling interventions to prevent perinatal depression have a moderate net benefit for persons at increased risk. […] A pragmatic approach, based on the populations included in the systematic evidence review, would be to provide counseling interventions to women with 1 or more of the following: a history of depression, current depressive symptoms (that do not reach a diagnostic threshold), certain socioeconomic risk factors such as low income or adolescent or single parenthood, recent intimate partner violence, or mental health-related factors such as elevated anxiety symptoms or a history of significant negative life events.
  • #44 The Ratu’s Model: A prevention model of postpartum depression | Enfermería Clínica
    https://www.elsevier.es/en-revista-enfermeria-clinica-35-articulo-the-ratu-s-model-a-prevention-S1130862119300233
    The Ratu’s Model is a nursing model to prevent postpartum depression, is a product of Ratu’s dissertation. Depression is one of the common psychological problem experienced by postpartum women. The number is estimated to reach 20% in Indonesia, 15-20% in the Riau Province, and must to be pressed to 1%. […] A significant correlation between Ratu’s Model with lowered postpartum depression incidence. […] The Ratu’s Model is effective lowering the incidence of postpartum depression. […] The psychoeducation and the counseling during the period of pregnancy may reduce the incidence of depression during and after the pregnancy. […] The lowered incidence of the postpartum depression in the intervention group may also be caused by the nutrition consumed by the pregnant women, especially the nutrients that may even prevent postpartum depression. […] The Ratu’s Model is effective to lowering the incidence of postpartum depression. Its is recommended that the Ratu’s Model may be utilized as more focus in maternity nursing service to prevent of postpartum depression in any healthcare services.
  • #45 Effects of a psychological nursing intervention on prevention of anxiety and depression in the postpartum period: a randomized controlled trial | Annals of General Psychiatry | Full Text
    https://annals-general-psychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12991-020-00320-4
    Anxiety and postpartum depression are the most common psychological problems in women after delivery. […] This research provided evidence that cognitive behavioral intervention in postpartum period could alleviate anxiety and depression in primiparous women, and inhibit the pathogenesis of postpartum depression. […] Cognitive behavioral intervention significantly alleviated postpartum depressive and anxiety during delivery. […] The performance of cognitive behavioral intervention (psychological nursing intervention) was able to effectively reduce the incidence of postpartum depression in primiparous women who had a postpartum depression tendency. […] Cognitive behavioral intervention could alleviate postpartum anxiety and depression in primiparous women, whereas the routine postpartum care failed to do so.
  • #46 Postpartum Depression | ACOG
    https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/postpartum-depression
    Postpartum depression is a type of depression that causes intense feelings of sadness, anxiety, or despair that keep people from being able to do their daily tasks. […] Postpartum depression can occur up to 1 year after having a baby, but it most commonly starts about 13 weeks after childbirth. […] Call your obstetrician-gynecologist (ob-gyn) or another health care professional right away if you think you may have postpartum depression, or if your partner or family members are concerned that you do. […] Postpartum depression can be treated with medications, including zuranolone and antidepressants. Talk therapy also is used to treat depression, sometimes with medications. […] If you have a history of depression at any time in your life or if you are taking an antidepressant, tell your ob-gyn early in your prenatal care. […] Support groups can be found at local hospitals, family planning clinics, or community centers.
  • #47 Management of postnatal depression in primary care: a window of opportunity | British Journal of General Practice
    https://bjgp.org/content/60/580/801
    The postnatal period is a particularly distressing time to experience mental health problems. Detection and appropriate treatment of psychiatric symptoms at this critical time in family life is perhaps more important than at any other time. Postnatal depression (PND) affects more than one in 10 women; it significantly impacts on partners; is associated with an impaired mother-infant bond; and has been linked to poor cognitive and emotional development in the infant, thus contributing to the inter-generational transmission of poor health. […] Strategies for identifying PND and supporting women and their families are therefore very important and must be timely, holistic, and appropriate to new mothers. […] Given the evidence for the effectiveness of both pharmacological and psychological interventions in improving health outcomes when PND is identified, there is much to be gained from early identification and management in primary care.
  • #47 Management of postnatal depression in primary care: a window of opportunity | British Journal of General Practice
    https://bjgp.org/content/60/580/801
    The interpersonal skills of healthcare professionals and their ability to engage with mothers who may have mental health problems, either during pregnancy or after childbirth, may be the key to successful outcomes. […] The GP is the one professional with access to a complete and up-to-date history for each woman, and the communication of this relevant history could save lives. […] GPs are well placed to raise awareness of PND with pregnant women, monitor mental health status during pregnancy, detect early symptoms of PND, and make urgent referrals to specialist secondary care services if severe mental illness is suspected. […] The speed and appropriateness of action in such severe cases can impact greatly on patient experience. […] Until services for women in the perinatal period are designed to be approachable and flexible enough to overcome the barriers to disclosure of symptoms, our healthcare services will fail to meet the needs of women and families. […] Any proposed approaches to improving perinatal care must ensure that all healthcare professionals are equipped with appropriate skills and competencies, not only to detect and manage perinatal depression but also to encourage engagement and acceptance of treatment.
  • #48 Integrating Postpartum Depression Screening in Your Practice in 4 Steps
    https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/perinatal-mental-health-and-social-support/integrating-postpartum-depression-screening-in-your-practice-in-4-steps/?srsltid=AfmBOoqCwrgglfAXWKNJZZDK5w_nVb-p7ZxB-R0lo_XpGKcwcxq90y0U
    Postpartum depression falls on a spectrum. […] Postpartum depression (PPD) lasts longer than the baby blues and interferes with the ability to perform daily activities. The person feels intense symptoms of sadness, anxiety and hopelessness that last up to one year. […] AAP recommends that birth parent should be screened for depression at the 1-, 2-, 4- and 6-month well-infant visits, using a validated screening tool. […] Parents who screen positive for depression should be referred promptly to community resources for treatment. […] It is important to identify resources and a process for assessment and referral in your community, ideally before you start screening. […] Postpartum depression is a subset of perinatal depression, and both are common and treatable. […] Left untreated, depression can hurt parents ability to bond with and care for their baby and lead to discontinued breastfeeding, family dysfunction and an increased risk of child abuse and neglect.
  • #49 Postnatal depression
    https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mental-health/mental-illnesses-and-mental-health-problems/postnatal-depression
    Most women will get better without any treatment within 3 to 6 months. 1 in 4 mothers with PND are still depressed when their child is one-year-old. However, this can mean a lot of suffering. PND can spoil the experience of new motherhood. It can strain your relationship with your baby and partner. You may not look after your baby, or yourself, as well as you would when you are well. PND can affect your child’s development and behaviour even after the depression has ended. So the shorter it lasts, the better. […] Treatment includes: talking treatments, medication. […] Talking about your feelings can be helpful, however depressed you are. Sometimes, it’s hard to express your feeling to someone close to you. Talking to a trained counsellor or therapist can be easier. It can be a relief to tell someone how you feel. It can also help you to understand and make sense of your difficulties.
  • #50 Case-based learning: postnatal depression – The Pharmaceutical Journal
    https://pharmaceutical-journal.com/article/ld/case-based-learning-postnatal-depression
    Evidence shows that PND that is not recognised and managed early can become difficult to treat and can lead to longer-term illness. Early psychosocial support is thought to help prevent the development of PND in at-risk mothers. […] Where women have been taking antidepressants during pregnancy, medication should ideally be continued post-birth owing to the risk of recurrence of depression. […] It is important to encourage the father to seek help and support. It can be helpful to follow up how he is feeling, particularly if he appears ambivalent about taking advice.
  • #51 The Malaysian Women’s Experience of Care and Management of Postnatal Depression
    https://clinical-practice-and-epidemiology-in-mental-health.com/VOLUME/17/PAGE/10/FULLTEXT/
    Early detection and intervention for Maternal Postnatal Depression (PND) are imperative to prevent devastating consequences for mothers, babies, and families. […] The findings of this study indicated that women did not acknowledge the roles of Healthcare Practitioners (HCPs) in alleviating their emotional distress. […] It is due to this perception that the women adopted self-help care as their primary coping strategy for PND. […] The analysis of participants descriptions indicated that their help-seeking behaviour was more likely to be influenced by their perceptions of the roles and responsibilities of HCPs and their feelings about the reaction of HCPs to their emotional distress. […] Most participants believed that the roles and responsibilities of HCPs were largely related to physical health and medical advice, but not emotional well-being.
  • #52
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00737-020-01035-x
    The disparities found in this study are of particular concern because the same women who are at greatest risk for depression (i.e., low-income or African American) as well as disparities in treatment for depression were also those least likely to be screened postpartum in our study. […] This study identified opportunities for improvement to achieve universal screening and address equitable care.
  • #53 Baby Blues vs. Postpartum Depression | South Dakota Department of Health
    https://doh.sd.gov/topics/mch/pregnancy-early-childhood/first-1000-days/you-and-baby/postpartum-depression/
    Without treatment, postpartum depression can last for months or years. But, there are effective treatments available. […] If you are experiencing postpartum depression or are concerned about someone who may be: Contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible. […] Women: Know that you are not alone. Tell your doctor about your symptoms. Consider treatment options such as: Counseling or Talk Therapy, Medications (there are medications that are safe when breastfeeding too). […] Dads can have postpartum depression too! In fact, depression in dads is relatively common, affecting anywhere between 2% 25% during their partners pregnancy or in the first year postpartum. […] Encourage her to talk with a healthcare provider if shes having symptoms of depression. Offer emotional and practical support. […] Encourage her to talk about her feelings. Listen to her without judging or offering solutions. Instead of trying to fix things, simply be there for her to lean on.
  • #54 JMIR mHealth and uHealth – Effectiveness of Telehealth Interventions for Women With Postpartum Depression: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
    https://mhealth.jmir.org/2021/10/e32544/
    Postpartum depression (PPD) is a prevalent mental health problem with serious adverse consequences for affected women and their infants. Clinical trials have found that telehealth interventions for women with PPD result in increased accessibility and improved treatment effectiveness. […] The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of telehealth interventions in reducing depressive symptoms and anxiety in women with PPD. […] Telehealth interventions could effectively reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety in women with PPD. […] Through telehealth services, women could have access to the relevant knowledge of psychological interventions anytime and anywhere. The anonymity of chat rooms in telehealth services could help protect women’s privacy, providing a new treatment option for women who do not want to receive a face-to-face treatment due to social stigma. […] This review highlights some directions for future research, including increasing research attention on antenatal and peripartum depression and determining the applicability of telehealth interventions for adolescent mothers who may be more comfortable with novel technologies.