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Postpartum major depression.
Kathryn P Hirst1, Christine Y Moutier
1University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, 92103, USA. khirst@ucsd.edu
American Family Physician
|October 19, 2010
Summary
Postpartum major depression (PMD) is a serious condition distinct from "baby blues." Early screening and treatment with psychotherapy or antidepressants are crucial for maternal and infant well-being.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Psychiatry
- Perinatal Mental Health
Background:
- Postpartum major depression (PMD) is frequently underdiagnosed.
- Risk factors include antenatal depressive symptoms, a history of major depressive disorder, or prior PMD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of distinguishing PMD from
- baby blues.
- To discuss risk factors, screening, and treatment options for PMD.
- To emphasize the potential consequences of untreated PMD on mother-infant bonding and infant development.
Main Methods:
- Screening using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale is recommended.
- Assessment should include direct questioning regarding suicidal ideation or thoughts of infant harm.
- Treatment options include psychotherapy and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Main Results:
- Psychotherapy can be an adjunct to medication for moderate to severe PMD.
- No specific antidepressant has demonstrated superiority.
- Antidepressant excretion into breast milk varies.
Conclusions:
- Untreated PMD can negatively impact mother-infant bonding.
- Delayed infant growth and development are potential outcomes.
- Infants of mothers with untreated PMD face an increased risk of later anxiety or depressive symptoms.
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