Clinical Recognition and Management of Postpartum Depression in Practice
Joy Baker, MD, FACOG, PMH-C, C-EFM, MT (ASCP); Elizabeth Johnson, RN, APRN, PMH-C; Alison Reminick, MD; and Kelly Devine Arch, DNP, CNM, PMHNP-BC, CLC, discuss how to recognize and differentiate postpartum depression from other perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive screening beyond just asking about self-harm, understanding risk factors, and implementing collaborative care approaches between obstetric providers, primary care physicians, psychiatrists, and pediatricians to ensure proper diagnosis, treatment, and support for both birthing parents and their partners during the vulnerable perinatal period.
EP. 1: Defining Postpartum Depression
Panelists discuss how postpartum depression differs from the normative “baby blues” experience, with postpartum depression being more persistent, severe, and functionally impairing compared with the temporary emotional fluctuations of baby blues that resolve within 2 weeks.
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EP. 2: Recognizing and Differentiating Postpartum Depression
Panelists discuss how perinatal mood and anxiety disorders can occur throughout pregnancy and postpartum periods, with symptoms varying based on timing and requiring differentiation from other conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, and panic disorder through careful assessment of presenting symptoms.
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