Improving Postpartum Depression Literacy: A Quality Improvement Initiative

Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is associated with increased healthcare costs, decreased levels of productivity, and negative patient outcomes, collectively affecting babies, women, and society. Women are at an increased risk for mortality and morbidity if postpartum depression is left untreated. Postpartum depression literacy improves patient outcomes. Problem: Women may fail to effectively recognize the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression, due to inadequate postpartum education and lower health literacy levels. Methods: A formalized postpartum depression education program was implemented online to mothers attending a postpartum adjustment support group in the spring of 2022 and compared to usual postpartum depression education. A structured or formalized postpartum depression education program consists of the implementation of a premeditated plan, in which the topics of postpartum depression, self-care, and social support are discussed in an effective and timely manner. Intervention: Three PPD education sessions were presented by the project leader and were repeated once, in which participants needed to attend three out of the six sessions. Results: After completion of educational sessions, there was a statistically significant difference in pre-and and post-test postpartum depression literacy scores (Mdn=150 vs. 126, respectively, p= .018). Conclusion: This project resulted in an increase in postpartum depression literacy scores, which reinforces the recommendation for the implementation of a formalized postpartum depression education program