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Pediatricians' views of postpartum depression: a self-administered survey
C C Wiley1, G S Burke, P A Gill
1Department of Pediatrics, Division of General Pediatrics, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Hartford, CT 06106, USA. cwiley@ccmckids.org
Insights
Pediatricians show limited knowledge of postpartum depression (PPD) and screening tools. Educational efforts are needed to improve pediatrician awareness and confidence in identifying and managing PPD.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Mental Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant maternal mental health concern.
- Pediatricians play a crucial role in early identification and intervention for PPD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate pediatricians' understanding and perspectives on postpartum depression (PPD).
- To identify knowledge gaps and barriers among pediatricians regarding PPD screening.
Main Methods:
- A self-administered survey was distributed to a national random sample of general pediatricians.
- Response rate was 32% (389 out of 1200 eligible pediatricians).
Main Results:
- Nearly half of pediatricians reported minimal education on PPD.
- A majority underestimated PPD incidence and lacked confidence in recognizing it.
- Familiarity with PPD screening tools was low (7%), though many found screening feasible (51%).
Conclusions:
- Pediatricians exhibit insufficient awareness of PPD and its screening methods.
- Targeted educational interventions are necessary to address knowledge deficits and enhance pediatrician involvement in PPD screening.
Objective:
To assess pediatricians' knowledge and views about postpartum depression (PPD).
Method:
Self-administered survey of a nationwide random sample of general pediatricians.
Results:
Of 1200 eligible pediatricians sampled, 389 responded (32%). Half of pediatricians (49%) reported little or no education about PPD. Many respondents (51%) underestimated the overall incidence of PPD. Most pediatricians (80%) estimated the incidence in their practice as less than the published incidence. Few pediatricians felt confident they would recognize PPD (31%). Pediatricians were rarely familiar with available screening tools (7%). Many pediatricians (51%) felt screening was feasible in their practices. In logistic regression analysis, intent to begin screening was independently associated with <6 years in practice, positive view of feasibility and greater awareness of PPD.
Conclusions:
Pediatricians sampled have limited awareness of PPD and are unfamiliar with screening tools. Efforts to involve pediatricians in screening should address these knowledge barriers.
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