Pediatricians' views of postpartum depression: a self-administered survey.
OBJECTIVE
To assess pediatricians' knowledge and views about postpartum depression (PPD).


METHODS
Self-administered survey of a nationwide random sample of general pediatricians.


RESULTS
Of 1200 eligible pediatricians sampled, 389 responded (32%). Half of pediatricians (49%) reported little or no education about PPD. Many respondents (51%) underestimated the overall incidence of PPD. Most pediatricians (80%) estimated the incidence in their practice as less than the published incidence. Few pediatricians felt confident they would recognize PPD (31%). Pediatricians were rarely familiar with available screening tools (7%). Many pediatricians (51%) felt screening was feasible in their practices. In logistic regression analysis, intent to begin screening was independently associated with <6 years in practice, positive view of feasibility and greater awareness of PPD.


CONCLUSIONS
Pediatricians sampled have limited awareness of PPD and are unfamiliar with screening tools. Efforts to involve pediatricians in screening should address these knowledge barriers.
Department of Pediatrics, Division of General Pediatrics, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Hartford, CT 06106, USA. cwiley@ccmckids.org
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Wiley
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Burke
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Gill
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Law
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D019052:Depression, Postpartum / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000517:prevention & control; D005194:Family Practice / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D008429:Maternal Welfare; D008875:Middle Aged; D010372:Pediatrics / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D012307:Risk Factors; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States