The pediatrician's role in recognizing and intervening in postpartum depression

Pediatr Clin North Am. 2004 Jun;51(3):785-801, xi. doi: 10.1016/j.pcl.2004.01.008.

Abstract

Increasing evidence of postpartum depression is encouraging pediatricians to include screening and intervention for postpartum depression in standard newborn and infant care. Pediatricians have the most frequent exposure to mothers and infants in the most high-risk time period and they have a vested interest in the well-being of the child and mother. Because the time required to achieve basic screening and referral services is minimal, there is enough evidence that postpartum screening and intervention are crucial components of comprehensive newborn and infant care. It is incumbent upon pediatricians to screen for and intervene in cases of postpartum depression to provide thorough care for infants and their families.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child Development
  • Depression, Postpartum / diagnosis*
  • Depression, Postpartum / etiology
  • Depression, Postpartum / therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Pediatrics*
  • Physician's Role*
  • Referral and Consultation
  • Risk Factors