Postpartum mental health screening and diagnosis by obstetrician-gynecologists.
Postpartum depression (PPD) and postpartum psychosis (PPP) can impact mother, infant, and family. Obstetrician-gynecologists (ob-gyns) are often the most frequent medical contact for postpartum women, and so are in a position to identify women needing psychological care. This study assessed ob-gyns' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding diagnosing PPD/PPP. A survey was sent to 400 members of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists who have volunteered to participate in research. Response rate was 56%. Routine screening for PPD and PPP is conducted by 72% and 30% of respondents, respectively. Personal experience (through friend, family, or self) was associated with increased screening. Perceived PPP screening barriers are similar to those found in the PPD literature: time constraints, lack of training, and lack of knowledge of diagnostic criteria. In responding to standardised vignettes, physicians were more likely to over-diagnose, than under diagnose PPD/PPP. This study is the first to provide exploratory data of ob-gyns' knowledge, attitudes, and practice regarding PPD and PPP. Ob-gyns are screening for PPD/PPP, though not universally so. Future research should identify ways to mitigate screening barriers.
Department of Research, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Washington, DC 20024, USA.
Meaghan
M
Leddy
David
D
Haaga
James
J
Gray
Jay
J
Schulkin
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D019052:Depression, Postpartum / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005260:Female; D006176:Gynecology; D019538:Health Care Surveys; D006801:Humans; D008603:Mental Health; D009774:Obstetrics; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians' / Q000706:statistics & numerical data