Question

A 32-year-old woman, 6 weeks postpartum, presents to her family doctor with pervasive low mood, guilt about her parenting, difficulty sleeping even when the baby sleeps and thoughts that her family would be better off without her, but no active plan of self-harm. According to the CTFPHC guideline on depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period, which statement about screening and management is most accurate?

Accepted Answer

The Task Force recommends against routine instrument-based screening of all pregnant and postpartum people but emphasises vigilant clinical enquiry and access to treatment when symptoms are present

Answer

Routine instrument-based screening of all postpartum women is recommended using the EPDS

Answer

Screening and management of postpartum depression should be deferred until 6 months postpartum

Answer

Postpartum depression is rare and usually resolves without treatment

Answer

Use of antidepressants is absolutely contraindicated in the postpartum period

Practice question