Argues that problems with existing screening tools for postpartum depression make it difficult to recommend them for routine screening. Concludes that depression screening “must be combined with systemic paths for referral of cases and well defined and implemented care plans to achieve outcome benefits.”
A critique of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, the primary test used to screen women for postnatal depression. Finds that there is a high risk of misdiagnosing women with this test - and the false positives (30-70%) could lead to unnecessary and inappropriate treatment.
Examines the the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) which is widely used to screen women for postpartum depression, and concludes that it may not be an equally valid screening tool across all settings and contexts.
National Network on Environment and Women's Health (NNEWH)
Media Type:
Online
Author:
National Network on Environments and Women's Health
This information sheet is based on the 2005 study “From Hurting Touch to Healing Touch: The Infant Feeding Experiences of Women Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse (CSA)” by Penny Van Esterik and Karen Wood. It states that for many women, the experience of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) has a lifelong impact, and may affect infant feeding practices. Breastfeeding or seeing other women breastfeeding may trigger sudden intense emotional memories of abuse. Sexual abuse in childhood affects every woman differently. The birth of a child, and the breastfeeding experience, has for many women been a negative experience. For other women, it has been a healing experience.
This article investigates whether or not there is evidence that antidepressant prescription drugs benefit pregnant women and if that benefit outweighs the potential risks. Author Jane Shulman refers to Dr. Barbara Mintzes' expertise on the growing trend for doctors to encourage women to continue taking anti-depressants when they get pregnant.
Describes the causes and different treatments of postpartum depression and anxiety. Offers various exercises and activities that can lead to positive changes.
Answers key questions that front-line workers may have about postpartum depression. Offers advice based on clinical experience and research. Addresses issues of diversity.
