Desired assistance versus care received for postpartum depression: access to care differences by race

One in seven women who have a baby will experience postpartum depression. Although there are many treatments for postpartum depression, many women do not receive assistance. When left untreated, this condition can have a deleterious affect on the woman's health/mental health, the child's cognitive, psychological, emotional and social development, the marital relationship and ability to contribute to society. This study examined 45 women's self-reported desire for PPD care and ability to obtain to these services in Erie County, New York. Results showed differences in desired care by race, differences in access to care by race and revealed the lack of PPD care in general.