Postpartum Depression Flashcards

A mother reports she began feeling depressed during her third trimester and the symptoms continue at 8 weeks postpartum. How should this presentation be classified?

Answer: Postpartum depression with peripartum onset specifier

Depression beginning in the prenatal period and continuing postpartum is classified as MDD with peripartum onset specifier, as DSM-5 includes pregnancy-onset presentations.

Which sleep intervention is MOST supported by evidence for improving mood in postpartum women with depression?

Answer: Coordinated sleep support allowing 4-hour uninterrupted sleep stretches

Coordinated partner or support person involvement to allow the mother at least one 4-hour uninterrupted sleep stretch significantly improves mood and is evidence-supported.

A postpartum client with PPD also has a history of bipolar II disorder. Which treatment consideration is MOST critical?

Answer: Use antidepressants only with a mood stabilizer to reduce risk of mood switch

In patients with bipolar disorder, SSRIs used without mood stabilizers carry risk of precipitating hypomanic or manic episodes, so mood stabilizer co-prescription is essential.

Which of the following is a core component of Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) as applied to postpartum depression?

Answer: Addressing role transitions related to new parenthood

IPT for PPD specifically targets the role transition to parenthood as a central therapeutic focus, helping mothers navigate identity and relational changes.

A postpartum patient declines antidepressants but is willing to try non-pharmacological interventions. Which of the following has the STRONGEST evidence as a non-pharmacological treatment for PPD?

Answer: Psychotherapy, particularly CBT or IPT

Structured psychotherapy, especially CBT and IPT, has the strongest non-pharmacological evidence base for treating PPD and is recommended as first-line in those declining medication.

A nurse practitioner screens all postpartum patients at the 2-week and 6-week well-baby visits using the EPDS. At what score should a full diagnostic clinical interview be initiated?

Answer: Score of 10 or above

An EPDS score of 10 or above is the commonly accepted threshold that warrants a full diagnostic clinical interview to assess for postpartum depression.

Which parenting behavior is MOST directly impacted by postpartum depression and should be assessed as part of a comprehensive PPD evaluation?

Answer: Maternal sensitivity and emotional availability during infant interactions

Maternal sensitivity and emotional availability are core attachment behaviors directly impaired by PPD and are critical targets of assessment and intervention.