Incorporating Recognition and Management of Perinatal Depression Into Pediatric Practice

Perinatal depression (PND) is the most common obstetric complication in the United States. Even when screening results are positive, mothers often do not receive further evaluation, and even when PND is diagnosed, mothers do not receive evidence-based treatments. Studies reveal that postpartum depression (PPD), a subset of PND, leads to increased costs of medical care, inappropriate medical treatment of the infant, discontinuation of breastfeeding, family dysfunction, and an increased risk of abuse and neglect. Pediatric medical homes should coordinate care more effectively with prenatal providers for women with prenatally diagnosed maternal depression; establish a system to implement PPD screening at the 1-, 2-, 4-, and 6-month well-child visits; use community resources for the treatment and referral of the mother with depression; and provide support for the maternal-child (dyad) relationship, including breastfeeding support.

In the policy statement, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends advocacy for workforce development for mental health professionals who care for young children and mother-infant dyads, as well as promotion of evidence-based interventions focused on healthy attachment and parent-child relationships. The technical report aims to review the definitions of perinatal depression, along with its epidemiology, to discuss the serious consequences for child development and to highlight efforts across the country that have demonstrated effectiveness in increasing early screening and treatment.