Postpartum mental health problems

Question 1

what scale is used to screen

Answer 1

Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale

Question 2

when is baby blues seen

Answer 2

Typically seen 3-7 days following birth and is more common in primips

Question 3

characteristics of baby blues

Answer 3

Mothers are characteristically anxious, tearful and irritable

Question 4

mx of any blues

Answer 4

Reassurance and support, the health visitor has a key role

Question 5

when does postnatal depression start

Answer 5

Most cases start within a month and typically peaks at 3 months

Question 6

what are the characteristics of post natal depression?

Answer 6

vFeatures are similar to depression seen in other circumstances

Question 7

Mx of post natal depression

Answer 7

reassurance

CBT

SSRIs - sertraline and paroxetine if severe - can breast-feed with them

Question 8

when does puerperal psychosis occur

Answer 8

Onset usually within the first 2-3 weeks following birth

Question 9

features of puerperal psychosis

Answer 9

Features include severe swings in mood (similar to bipolar disorder) and disordered perception (e.g. auditory hallucinations)

Question 10

mx of puerperal psychosis

Answer 10

Admission to hospital is usually required, ideally in a Mother & Baby Unit