Post Partum Depression: Improving Education and Screening in the Pediatric Primary Care Setting

Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) affects between 5-25% of new mothers. This rate can be as much as double for low-income families, young parents and those individuals who have previously suffered from depression. The spectrum of depressive symptoms can range from “postpartum baby blues” to postpartum depression and/or postpartum psychosis. The population surveyed in this study is a very young population with average delivery age of 22-26 years with a lower educational level. In addition, the population of individuals is in an isolated location in central Alaska, where deployment is a notable factor and the majority families do not have much support from family or friends; all risk factors for increased incidence of postpartum depression. PPD threatens the prosperity of the family dynamic which has been shown to negatively impact and impair a child’s social interaction and development. It is essential to screen all parents for PPD, especially in our isolated population. Visits for newborn and infant health maintenance are …