Postpartum Depression: An Investigation Related to Identification, Treatment and Prevention

Thesis (M.Nurs.), College of Nursing, Washington State UniversityPostpartum depression (PPD) can cause significant distress in the lives of new mothers and their families. Approximately 10-15% of all new mothers have experienced this devastating mood disorder sometime during the first year after delivery. This report will review ways to identify postpartum depression, available treatment options and important prevention practices. The onset of PPD can occur anytime during the first 12 months postpartum. However, the onset begins with most women in the first three months after delivery. Common symptoms include anxiety, abrupt mood swings, periods of tearfulness, and aggression. Careful patient screening is required for identification and the effective treatment of PPD. Adequate referral services are required to help control the cost of treatment so help is available. One major goal of treatment is to ensure the safety of the mother and the infant. It is wise that the practitioner be educated both in maternal/child and psychiatric health in order to provide supportive and sufficient care. Providing support to the mother and her family is essential for positive outcomes when dealing with PPD. Further study of treatment options and prevention strategies of PPD are warranted