Mommy Meltdown: A Look at the Prevalence of Postpartum Depression and Attitudes Towards Treatment Guidance [35N]

• Published in: Obstetrics and gynecology (New York. 1953) Vol. 133 Suppl 1; no. 1; p. 160S
• Main Authors: House, Talelia, Spiryda, Lisa Beth
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved 01.05.2019
• ISSN: 0029-7844; 1873-233X
• DOI: 10.1097/01.AOG.0000559341.05307.8e

INTRODUCTION:One in seven women are affected by perinatal depression. Black and Hispanic women are amongst those affected the most, which has been said be influenced by socioeconomic and emotional disadvantage. The goal of this study is to determine the prevalence of postpartum depression (PPD) and look at the attitudes of minority women toward depression and treatment considerations. METHODS:This study is a prospective survey that was completed at the six week postpartum In addition to the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. All 18 years old and older and less than 8 weeks postpartum were invited to complete the survey. The primary outcome of our study is prevalence and attitudes toward depression. RESULTS:Our preliminary results show that approximately 20% of our patient population suffer from postpartum depression based on EPDS scores (Median Score8; Range 0-25). 40% of our patients identified as Black. There was no difference in EPDS score when data stratified by race, mode of delivery, NICU stay and complications of pregnancy. Regardless of race, patients were also open to treatment for PPD and feel comfortable discussing the topic with their families. CONCLUSION:PPD was common among our patient regardless of race. Both black and white women were open to discussing depression with their families and willing to accept treatment. By identifying the prevalence of PPD and attitudes toward depression and treatment, we are hoping to shed light on the growing epidemic in minority patients and move toward eliminating health disparities in mental health in our moms and moms-to-be.