Treatment Centers

Recognizing the behaviors and symptoms of post-partum depression sooner, rather than later, may save the lives of new mothers and prevent new babies from harm, say experts. The American Academy of Pediatrics is now recommending that pediatricians screen new mothers with a series of questions to determine if post-partum depression is a risk for both the mother and the baby.

Abrupt changes in hormonal patterns, lack of sleep and the flood of new responsibilities can all be connected with the onset of post-partum depression – but for some women, the symptoms become so severe that risks for self-harm or suicide increase, as well as safety risks for the baby.

Findings of studies of the effects of post-partum depression on infants, published in 2010 in the journal Pediatrics, say one danger of the condition is that the mother’s depression can contribute to developmental problems, cognitive problems and even anxiety-related disorders for young infants. Study authors say the groundwork for brain development is affected by the baby’s environment, even in the earliest stages.

In addition, a depressed mother may neglect the baby’s needs, and the bonding process between the baby and the child can be negatively affected. Because newborn babies generally receive more doctor’s visits than new mothers in the first four weeks following birth, the American Academy of Pediatrics is encouraging pediatricians to know what questions to ask – and what signs to look for – to determine if a mother may be suffering from post-partum depression.

In the process proposed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the pediatricians would be trained to make referrals for mothers whom they suspect may have post-partum depression to see experts in the mental health field. While the pediatricians are not expected to diagnose the disorder, they could use screening techniques to help find mothers who need referrals for additional treatments.

Some symptoms of post-partum depression include not eating, inability to sleep, feelings of rage or irritability, or abnormal levels of guilt. The mother may lose interest in caring for the baby. Generally, post-partum depression lasts for a period longer than two weeks and is not the same as the “baby blues,” which are milder in symptoms and more short-lived. Post-partum depression, say experts, can last months, or even a year or more.

Researchers at the University of Rochester also agree that screening for post-partum depression is important, and suggest that the screens continue for the infants’ first year of life. The screens could be conducted in as simple a format as a questionnaire the mother fills out when she brings the baby for a pediatrician’s visit.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, at least 400,000 babies will be born each year to mothers who are struggling with depression. It is hoped that pediatricians can be part of the early screening process for post-partum depression, potentially saving lives and helping ensure the safety and appropriate development of thousands of babies.