How do new mothers perceive screening for perinatal depression?

Area of Science:

• Perinatal mental health
• Maternal psychology
• Healthcare provider-patient interactions

Background:

• Perinatal mental health difficulties are a recognized risk, with screening and early detection of depressive symptoms offering significant benefits.
• Poland implemented a new standard of perinatal care in 2019, mandating the monitoring of women's postpartum mental state.
• Understanding mothers' perspectives on postpartum depression (PPD) screening is crucial for effective implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze mothers' views on screening for postpartum depression (PPD) in Poland.
• To assess mothers' perceptions of midwife competencies in identifying and managing PPD.
• To explore the relationship between maternal mental health status, delivery method, and satisfaction with perinatal care.

Main Methods:

• A two-stage study involving 150 postpartum women in Poland.
• Stage 1: Assessment of PPD symptoms using the Edinburgh Post-natal Depression Scale (EPDS) during midwife home visits.
• Stage 2: Telephone survey including the EPDS and questions on perceived midwife competence and information usefulness.

Main Results:

• Most women rated midwives highly for communication, EPDS interpretation, and creating a comfortable screening environment.
• Women with elevated PPD symptoms perceived lower midwife competence in fostering supportive discussions.
• Mothers who underwent cesarean section reported lower satisfaction with information provided on newborn care.

Conclusions:

• Midwives must be prepared for potential patient criticism, which may indicate underlying depression.
• A supportive and friendly approach by healthcare providers can enhance women's willingness to engage in PPD screening and treatment.
• Addressing mothers' perceptions of competence and information quality is vital for improving perinatal mental healthcare.