POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION: AN EDUCATIONAL MODULE FOR HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS

Abstract

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a well- recognized public health problem with a predictable onset beginning after childbirth and lasting from 3 to 14 months. Studies consistently report that cases of PPD are not identified and treated which results in serious personal, family, and social consequences (Webster et al., 2000). Therefore, it is of great importance that this disorder be diagnosed and treated early to prevent these deleterious consequences. The reported prevalence for PPD ranges from 3.5% to 33% depending upon assessment criteria used (Whifen as cited in Evins et al., 2000). The purpose of this clinical project was to review the literature in order to identify those factors that prevent postpartum depression from being identified and treated. A critique of the literature led to assessing one commonly used screening tool and to proposing strategies to increase early diagnosis and treatment. Not a single article reported PPD as being identified and treated, and this resulted in the development of an education module for health care providers. A suggestion for future educational modules includes targeting women in their reproductive years, as well as the community. The goal of these educational modules would be to is increase awareness of PPD risk factors, screening, and treatment strategies to avoid women and their families from suffering from PPD sequelae.