Postpartum Coping

Question 1

What percentage of new mothers experience Baby Blues?

Answer 1

85%

Question 2

What are the symptoms of baby blues?

Answer 2

Resolves after first few weeks

• sadness
• tearfulness
• irritability
• mood swings
• crying spells
• anxiousness
• appetite disturbance

Question 3

What are the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression (PPD)?

Answer 3

• Depressed mood
• Functional impairment
• Lack of affectionate bonding
• Changes in sleep or eating patterns
• Excessive fatigue
• Psychomotor agitation
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Suicidal ideation
• Loss of interest in pleasurable activities

PPD is more serious than Baby Blues and can persist beyond the initial weeks after childbirth.

Question 4

What percentage of new moms experience postpartum depression?

Answer 4

15%

could be greater… many cases are unreported

Question 5

What is the incidence of postpartum depression among teenage mothers compared to older mothers?

Answer 5

50% higher

Question 6

What are the medical management options for postpartum depression?

Answer 6

• Pharmacologic intervention: antidepressants, antianxiety agents, mood stabilizers, antipsychotics
• Nonpharmacologic options: psychotherapy and support groups

The natural course of postpartum depression is gradual improvement over six months.

Question 7

What is the incidence of postpartum psychosis?

Answer 7

1-2/1000 births

This condition can occur 1-4 weeks after birth or up to 90 days after birth.

Question 8

What are the characteristics of postpartum psychosis?

Answer 8

• Severely impaired ability
• Agitation
• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Paranoia
• Severe mood depression

Postpartum psychosis is considered a psychiatric emergency.

Question 9

What is the prognosis for postpartum psychosis with early detection and aggressive treatment?

Answer 9

Relatively good

Early intervention is crucial for better outcomes.

Question 10

What should a nurse do when caring for a woman with postpartum psychosis?

Answer 10

• Be an active listener
• Show compassion and care
• Observe for signs of depression: sleep, energy level, fatigue
• Educate family
• Provide resources

Nurses play a vital role in supporting women experiencing postpartum mood disorders.

Question 11

What are the risk factors for postpartum depression?

Answer 11

• Personal or family history of mood disorder
• Negative life event such as: loss of loved one, poor marital support, divorce, financial difficulties
• Thyroid disorder
• Teen mom