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1: J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs. 2005 Mar-Apr;34(2):264-73.Click here to read Links

Identifying and treating postpartum depression.

Horowitz JA, Goodman JH.

Massachusetts General Institute of Health, 36 1st Avenue, Boston, MA 02129, USA.

Postpartum depression affects 10% to 20% of women in the United States and negatively influences maternal, infant, and family health. Assessment of risk factors and depression symptoms is needed to identify women at risk for postpartum depression for early referral and treatment. Individual and group psychotherapy have demonstrated efficacy as treatments, and some complementary/alternative therapies show promise. Treatment considerations include severity of depression, whether a mother is breastfeeding, and mother's preference. Nurses who work with childbearing women can advise depressed mothers regarding treatment options, make appropriate recommendations, provide timely and accessible referrals, and encourage engagement in treatment.

PMID: 15781605 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]