Depression during pregnancy is quite common, affecting an estimated 14-23 % of pregnant women in the United States (1). While postpartum depression affects 10-16%, antenatal depression is equally widespread, and carries with it a significant level of risk for subsequent postpartum depression (2). Antenatal depression adversely affects both the mother and the infant and has been associated with poor attendance for prenatal care, substance misuse, poor nutrition, low birth weight infants, and preterm birth. Consequences of postnatal depression include neglect of the child, family system breakdown, self-harm, and suicide. This course discusses pregnant women as a vulnerable population, identifying health disparities, factors influencing vulnerability, and evidence related to this population’s strengths and potential for resilience. The focus of the course is limited to the issue of perinatal depression in pregnant women in the United States. Transition theory is presented as a proposed framework for the development of an intervention strategy consisting of antenatal screening for depression and antenatal education related to depression.

Course Publication Date: August 03, 2020

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Author: Ray Lengel RN, FNP, MS Course No: TT080320 Contact Hours: 2.00 Delivery Method: Online Self Study Category: Psychiatric & Mental Health Community & Home Health Leadership & Case Management Medical & Surgical Issues Peri-Natal Medicine Women's Health

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