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Perinatal depression screening rates, correlates, and treatment recommendations in an obstetric population

Molly M Long1, Robert J Cramer2, Linda Bennington3

  • 1College of Social Work, University of Kentucky.

Families, Systems & Health : the Journal of Collaborative Family Healthcare
|October 29, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Obstetric providers should screen for perinatal depression (PD) at all appointments. History of depression and anxiety are key predictors of elevated scores, highlighting the need for thorough assessment and provider training.

Area of Science:

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Mental Health Research
  • Clinical Practice Guidelines

Background:

  • Perinatal depression (PD) poses significant risks to maternal and infant well-being.
  • Current screening and treatment practices among obstetrical health care providers require evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the current screening and treatment protocols for perinatal depression (PD) within an obstetrics and gynecology practice.
  • To determine the frequency of PD screening, rates of elevated Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) scores, and associated demographic factors.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of 557 patient records from an Obstetrician/Gynecology practice.
  • Analysis of PD screening completion rates, EPDS score elevations, and treatment recommendations.
  • Identification of demographic correlates and predictors of elevated EPDS scores.

Main Results:

  • Screening completion rates varied: 60.1% (intake), 35% (glucola test), and 85.5% (6-week follow-up).
  • Elevated EPDS scores ranged from 13.00% to 18.21% across different assessment points.
  • History of depression, anxiety, and younger age were significant correlates of elevated EPDS scores.

Conclusions:

  • Obstetric/gynecology providers should implement universal perinatal depression screening at every appointment.
  • Thorough assessment of a patient's history of depression and anxiety is crucial.
  • Enhanced education for providers and perinatal women can improve mental health outcomes.
Abstract

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