Prevention and treatment of postnatal depression.
Postnatal depression is a common condition that may have a significant negative impact on both infant and mother, often remaining undiagnosed and untreated. Development of effective means of detection, prevention and treatment of postnatal depression is a major health challenge. The objective of this article is to critically review pharmacological, psychological and psychosocial approaches of prevention and treatment for postnatal depression. There is little evidence of short-term success for preventive interventions and some evidence of short-term success for treatment interventions. No preventive or therapeutic studies, however, have provided evidence for long-term success. There is a need for future research into the prevention and treatment of postnatal depression including the assessment of long-term effects on the child's development as well as feasibility in relation to cost-effectiveness.
Chabrol
Henri
H
University of Toulouse-Le Mirail, Toulouse, France. chabrol@univ-tlse2.fr
Callahan
Stacey
S
D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D019052:Depression, Postpartum / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008405:Massage / Q000379:methods; D011181:Postnatal Care / Q000379:methods; D011247:Pregnancy; D011295:Prenatal Care / Q000379:methods; D011613:Psychotherapy / Q000379:methods*; D012944:Social Support
D000928:Antidepressive Agents