Depression in Perinatal Period Flashcards
Postpartum blues
Tearfulness and feelings of distress that affect 50-80% of new mothers
Generally occurs between days 3-5 postpartum
Self limited and usually resolves within 2 weeks
Small percentage progresses to postpartum depression
Mean prevalence rate of postpartum depression
13%
Symptoms unique to postpartum depression
Lack of enjoyment in the baby
Difficulty sleeping when the baby is sleeping
Feelings of worthlessness and guilt related to parenting
Obsessive thoughts of harm occurring to the baby
If suicidal, may believe that the baby would be better off with another mother
Postpartum psychosis
More common in first time moms
Rapid onset, usually within 2 weeks of delivery for ~40 days
Psychiatric emergency requiring hospitalization
Symptoms: insomnia, mood fluctuations, obsessive concerns, severe mood symptoms, delusions, hallucinations, disorganized behaviour, confusion and perplexity
When do we screen for perinatal depression?
Between weeks 28-32 of pregnancy
Postpartum between 6-16 weeks
What screening tool is used for perinatal depression?
Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale
First line pharm treatment for perinatal depression
SSRIs