Depression during pregnancy: rates, risks and consequences--Motherisk Update 2008

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Psychiatry
• Women's Health

Background:

• Affective illness is prevalent in women, particularly during the vulnerable puerperium period.
• Hormonal shifts, socialization, and genetics contribute to gender differences in affective disorder expression.
• Postpartum depression (PPD) complicates 15% of deliveries, with significant risk factors identified.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the vulnerability of women to affective illness postpartum.
• To examine the effectiveness of screening tools in increasing treatment seeking for perinatal depression.
• To underscore the adverse outcomes of untreated maternal depression on both mother and child.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on postpartum depression and screening tools.
• Analysis of factors influencing treatment seeking in pregnant and postpartum women.
• Examination of complications associated with untreated depression during pregnancy.

Main Results:

• Screening tools like the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale can identify women needing further assessment.
• Despite identification, only 18% of women with major depressive disorder seek treatment during pregnancy and postpartum.
• Common depression symptoms may be mistaken for normal pregnancy experiences, hindering diagnosis.

Conclusions:

• Untreated antenatal and postpartum depression can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes, including low birth weight and premature birth.
• Perceived stress, depression, and anxiety are linked to poorer infant outcomes.
• Effective treatment engagement is crucial for improving maternal and child health, despite challenges in identifying and treating PPD.