Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 24, 2026
14:43
A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting
Published on: January 12, 2018
Outcomes from implementing systematic antepartum depression screening in obstetrics.
Paul Rowan1, Anthony Greisinger, Brenda Brehm
1Division of Management, Policy, and Community Health, School of Public Health, The University of Texas, Houston, TX 77030, USA. Paul.J.Rowan@uth.tmc.edu
Archives of Women'S Mental Health
|March 3, 2012
Summary
Systematic depression screening during pregnancy showed low linkage to behavioral healthcare. Postdelivery screening improved, but barriers to care access persist for pregnant individuals.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Mental Health Research
- Healthcare Implementation Science
Background:
- Peripartum depression affects a significant number of pregnant individuals.
- Early detection and intervention are crucial for maternal well-being.
- Integrating mental health screening into routine obstetric care presents implementation challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of systematic depression screening in an obstetric setting.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of detection and referral in linking patients to behavioral healthcare.
- To identify barriers to accessing mental healthcare services during the perinatal period.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) for depression screening at initial prenatal visits.
- Advised patients scoring 14 or higher on the EPDS to seek behavioral health assessment.
- Conducted telephone follow-ups within 4 weeks to ascertain pursuit of recommended care.
- Evaluated limited data from a newly established postdelivery screening process.
Main Results:
- Of 2,199 pregnant women screened, 102 (4.6%) scored 14 or higher on the EPDS; none pursued further assessment.
- For 569 women with postdelivery screening data, 28 (4.9%) scored 14 or higher, and 5 (17.9%) pursued behavioral healthcare.
- Systematic screening and electronic medical record monitoring are feasible.
- Initial pregnancy screening showed no linkage to care, while postdelivery screening had a modest impact.
Conclusions:
- Systematic depression screening during pregnancy is feasible but does not guarantee linkage to behavioral healthcare.
- Postdelivery screening demonstrates a modest improvement in connecting patients to care.
- Further research is needed to identify and address barriers preventing pregnant individuals from accessing recommended mental health services.