Postpartum Depression NUR 113 Summer Semester Debbie Hogan

Postpartum Psychologic Complications Mental health disorders in postpartum period have implications for mother, newborn, and entire family Interfere with attachment to newborn and family integration May threaten safety and well-being of mother, newborn, and other children

Postpartum Psychologic Complications—cont’d Mood disorders 70% of women experience a mild depression or “baby blues” Some women have more serious depression Can eventually incapacitate them to point of being unable to care for themselves and their babies

Postpartum Psychologic Complications—cont’d Postpartum depression without psychotic features Postpartum depression: an intense and pervasive sadness with severe and labile mood swings Treatment options Antidepressants, anxiolytic agents, and electroconvulsive therapy Psychotherapy focuses fears and concerns of new responsibilities and roles; monitoring for suicidal or homicidal thoughts

Postpartum Psychologic Complications—cont’d Postpartum depression with psychotic features Postpartum psychosis: syndrome characterized by depression, delusions, and thoughts of harming either infant or herself Psychiatric emergency; may require psychiatric hospitalization Antipsychotics and mood stabilizers such as lithium are treatments of choice

Nursing Care Management On postpartum unit In home and community Referrals Providing safety Psychiatric hospitalization Psychotropic medications Other treatments for postpartum depression