PP Depression

Question 1

PP Blues or Baby Blues

Answer 1

• Tearfulness, anxiety, irritation, restlessness from day 3 - 10 PP
• Occurs in about 80% of women
• General irritability, weepiness, feeling down

Question 2

PP Depression

Answer 2

• Higher risk in women with history of mental health problems
• 15-20% PP women and 10% PP partners
• Lasts longer than 2 weeks PP, symptoms worsen

Question 3

PP Depression Diagnosis

Answer 3

• Symptoms persist for 2+ weeks
• Symptoms occur much of the day, almost every day
• Screening with Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale
• Must have at least 4 of these symptoms: depressed mood, agitation, fatigue, lack of interest in pleasure, poor concentration and decision making, poor appetite, insomnia, feelings of failure as a mother, guilt, unusual worry over infant’s health, suicidal thoughts

Question 4

PP Depression Treatment

Answer 4

• Increasing comprehensive coping methods: sleep, nutrition, exercise, social support, counseling
• Meds: SSRIs, often Zoloft for breastfeeding moms, initiate at 1/2 usual dose and treat for 6 months after full remission
• Psychotherapy may help

Question 5

PP Psychosis

Answer 5

• Very rare: 1/1,000 births
• Onset is very sudden and usually occurs within first 4 weeks PP
• People with hx of bipolar are at risk
• Psychiatric emergency due to risk of suicide or fetal harm
• 5% infanticide/suicide rate

Question 6

PP Psychosis S/S

Answer 6

• Bizarre behavior
• Disorganization of thought
• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Irritation
• Hyperactive
• Decreased need for sleep
• Significant mood changes with poor decision making