Postpartum Depression Tool in Burmese Women

Abstract

Background: In the United States, the prevalence of postpartum depression is 10-15%. There is limited study on the appropriate postpartum screening tool for Burmese refugees in the United States. Hypothesis: The Burmese and Karenni versions of Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) are appropriate to use as a tool for screening postpartum depression in Burmese refugees. Aims: This study examines the views of Burmese refugees on the questions of Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale as a routine screening for postnatal depression and their opinion and experiences on postpartum depression. Methods: A qualitative approach was chosen to complete this study. A medical student and a Burmese interpreter participated in a one-on-one interview with 30 Burmese women sharing their views and opinions on translated EPDS and postpartum depression. Results: Thirty Burmese women were interviewed in the Phoenix area. The qualitative analysis indicate that the EPDS screening turned out to be a useful and culturally appropriate tool for the Burmese refugees to screen postpartum depression in this specific population. Conclusions: Without consistent and culturally appropriate screening for Burmese women, it would be hard to treat Burmese women for postpartum depression. Our study shows that acceptability for routine screening with a translated EPDS amongst health visitors is possible to achieve. Using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale in Burmese and Karenni language should be considered when seeing Burmese refugees in the clinic.