Maternal Well-being & Emotional Support Flashcards

A client with a history of bipolar I disorder becomes pregnant. What is the primary clinical concern regarding her perinatal risk?

Answer: High risk of postpartum psychosis and mood episode recurrence

Women with bipolar I disorder have a significantly elevated risk of postpartum psychosis and mood episode recurrence, requiring close psychiatric monitoring throughout the perinatal period.

Which of the following is a recognized risk factor for developing perinatal anxiety disorders specifically (not depression)?

Answer: History of miscarriage or pregnancy loss

A history of pregnancy loss is a particularly strong risk factor for perinatal anxiety, as it often leads to hypervigilance and fear of recurrence in subsequent pregnancies.

During a postpartum home visit, a provider observes a mother who appears disheveled, speaks rapidly about receiving special messages from the television, and has not slept in 3 days. The priority intervention is:

Answer: Arrange immediate psychiatric evaluation and ensure infant safety

The presentation of psychotic symptoms, grandiosity, and severe sleep deprivation is consistent with postpartum psychosis, a psychiatric emergency requiring immediate evaluation and infant safety planning.

A client at 10 weeks postpartum discloses she experienced sexual trauma prior to pregnancy. How might this history specifically affect her postpartum experience?

Answer: It may increase risk of PTSD symptoms, particularly if birth felt out of her control

Prior trauma history increases vulnerability to postpartum PTSD, particularly when birth experiences involve loss of control, invasive procedures, or perceived powerlessness.

Interpersonal therapy (IPT) adapted for postpartum depression primarily targets which domain?

Answer: Role transitions and relationship changes associated with new parenthood

IPT for postpartum depression focuses on navigating the role transition to parenthood, grief, and interpersonal disputes that commonly contribute to postpartum mood difficulties.

A perinatal mental health specialist is counseling a couple where the birthing parent has postpartum depression. What is the evidence-based recommendation regarding the non-birthing partner?

Answer: Partners should also be screened as they have elevated rates of depression

Research shows that approximately 10% of fathers and non-birthing partners also experience perinatal depression, and they should be screened, particularly when the birthing parent is symptomatic.

Which statement best describes the relationship between breastfeeding difficulties and postpartum mental health?

Answer: Breastfeeding difficulties are associated with increased postpartum depression risk

Breastfeeding difficulties, pain, and perceived failure to breastfeed are associated with increased risk of postpartum depression and should be addressed as part of comprehensive perinatal care.