Postnatal Depression Flashcards
Spectrum of postnatal mental health illness
Baby blues
Postnatal depression
Puerperal psychosis
When does baby blues occur
In the first week or so after birth in particularly first-time mothers
Presentation of Baby blues
Mood swings Low mood Anxiety Irritability Tearfulness
How long does the baby blues last
Last a few days and resolve within 2 weeks of delivery
Management of baby blues
Reassurance
Postnatal Depression presentation
Low mood
Anhedonia
Low energy
When does postnatal depression occur
Around 3 months after birth
How long does postnatal depression last
At least 2 weeks
Management of postnatal depression
Mild cases - additional support, self-help and follow up with their GP
Moderate cases - antidepressant medications (e.g. SSRIs) and CBT
Severe cases - input from specialist psychiatry services, and rarely inpatient care on the mother and baby unit
Edinburgh Postnatal depression scale
Assess how the mother has felt over the past week
10 + suggests postnatal depression
Puerperal Psychosis presentation
Delusions Hallucinations Depression Mania Confusion Thought disorder
When does puerperal psychosis occur
Two to three weeks after delivery
Management of puerperal psychosis
Urgent assessment and input from specialist mental health service
- Admission to the mother and baby unit
- CBT
- Medications (antidepressants, antipsychotics or mood stabilisers)
- Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
Preparation During Pregnancy with existing mental health concerns
Referred to perinatal mental health services for advice and specialist input before or during the pregnancy
Follow up after delivery by GP and midwife
Side effects of taking SSRIs during pregnancy
Neonatal abstinence syndrome (known as neonatal adaptation syndrome) in the first few days after birth
