Postpartum depression affects between 10-15% of all mothers. Typically, mothers do not see a doctor until 6 weeks postpartum, and not at all after that. The symptoms of depression are often not recognized by mothers, family members, or friends. However, mothers see their child’s pediatrician many times in the first few months postpartum. The health of the baby is also affected by the health of the mother. Pediatricians are therefore the logical choice for detecting postpartum depression in mothers. Both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Bright Futures Guidelines now recommend that pediatricians screen mothers for postpartum depression several times in the first six months of life.
We will begin screening mothers for postpartum depression this month, using a validated screening questionnaire. All results are confidential. If a mother is at risk or has signs of postpartum depression, we will refer the mother to the appropriate healthcare providers.
We hope that this service will enhance and improve the health and well-being of both children and families in our practice.