Identification and Treatment of Peripartum Anxiety Disorders

Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am. 2018 Sep;45(3):469-481. doi: 10.1016/j.ogc.2018.04.001.

Abstract

Anxiety disorders in the peripartum period are common and frequently overlooked. They can present de novo or as exacerbations of generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder and social anxiety disorder, or posttraumatic stress disorder. Calculating a score on the Edinburgh postnatal depression scale is a useful method of screening for these disorders while also screening for perinatal depression. Treatment includes psychotherapy, specifically cognitive behavioral therapy, and antidepressants, the choice of which should be balanced between the severity of symptoms and impact of functioning, risks of untreated illness, and the risks associated with the use of medications in pregnancy and lactation. In summary, anxiety disorders in the peripartum period should be recognized and treated promptly.

Keywords: Anxiety; Anxiety disorders; Perinatal; Peripartum; Screening; Treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antidepressive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Anxiety Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Anxiety Disorders / therapy*
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy*
  • Depression / diagnosis
  • Depression / therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Peripartum Period / psychology*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / diagnosis*
  • Pregnancy Complications / psychology
  • Pregnancy Complications / therapy*
  • Pregnant Women / psychology*
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • Antidepressive Agents