FEATURED Medical education topic: Postpartum Depression

Tremendous hormonal, physical, psychological, and emotional changes occur in a female during pregnancy, and childbirth is a difficult and exhausting process. Perinatal depression can occur during pregnancy, the postpartum period, or both and can be difficult to recognize. It is estimated that 10-20% of women experience some form of perinatal depression. After childbirth, a mother can experience several weeks of feeling sad or teary, which is referred to as “baby blues.” However, around 1 in 7 women can develop postpartum depression (PPD), which is more severe and lasts longer than baby blues. PPD can affect the mother and her relationship with the infant. Perinatal depression can be treated with counseling, antidepressants, or hormone therapy. It is important for healthcare professionals to screen pregnant and postpartum women and know the resources and treatment options available. 

Proposed Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of this activity, the learners will be able to:

• Describe the epidemiology of depression in pregnancy and the postpartum period
• Learn special techniques to assess for depression in this population
• Counsel women regarding appropriate treatment of depression around the time of pregnancy and breastfeeding and the associated risks and benefits
• Identify any differences in the prevalence of depression based on maternal age

If your medical staff needs an update on the management of postpartum depression, consider contacting our office to book a speaker at 877-505-4777 or info@speakersnetwork.com.

Download the PDF on this topic: http://speakersnetwork.com/forms/PostpartumDepression.pdf

References:

https://www.apa.org/topics/women-girls/postpartum-depression

https://www.womenshealth.gov/mental-health/mental-health-conditions/postpartum-depression

https://www.ccjm.org/content/87/5/273